Ever feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster, up one minute and down the next? Mood swings can be confusing and frustrating as they are fast and unpredictable. These fluctuations in mood are a common aspect of human experience, influenced by a myriad of factors both internal and external.

Body dysmorphic disorder, also know as body dysmorphia, has a long history, with psychiatrists discussing and diagnosing it since the 1850s. They used the term to describe individuals who were convinced they were unattractive despite having no visible flaws. So this isn’t just a modern phenomenon tied to our society’s preoccupation with appearance.

As much as we cherish our celebration of pride through dancing, fun and dressing up, one thing we must acknowledge is that the Pride Month goes beyond the colorful rainbow parades; it’s about celebrating resilience, progress, the struggle for equal rights and justice, and a strong sense of community.

Did you know that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to women? This can be due to societal expectations, stigma, and a lack of awareness. June is dedicated to raising awareness about men's mental health, with International Men's Health Week observed from June 10-16. Men’s mental health is a topic that's often overlooked, but it's incredibly important.

The relationship between the arts and mental health is well established in the field of art therapy. Here, art-based techniques –painting, dancing, role play– become evidence-based interventions for mental health issues, like anxiety and depression. But guess what? Art’s healing touch extends beyond therapy sessions. In various non-therapy contexts, the arts are used to promote mental well-being.

Numerous institutions across Europe, UN agencies, and the World Health Organization have all acknowledged the pressing need for commitment and action on mental health. Often, the significance of mental well-being in our daily lives is underestimated, and a stigma surrounds it, adversely affecting those grappling with mental health issues. This is precisely why Mental Health Awareness Month exists, gaining increasing public support each year.