10 Reasons to Feel Hopeful About Mental Health 
Mental Health Awareness Month

1. Post-Traumatic Growth Is Possible

Even in the aftermath of hardship, growth can occur. Research shows that post-traumatic growth (PTG)鈥攑ositive psychological change following adversity鈥攊s linked to self-compassion, positive reframing, and social support. 鈥淧TG reminds us that healing isn鈥檛 just about returning to baseline,鈥� says Glassman. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about growing beyond it.鈥�

2. The Brain Can Change鈥攆or the Better

Engaging in regular exercise, meditation, and cognitive challenges can enhance brain connectivity and emotional regulation. Neuroplasticity research shows that these habits can lead to structural brain changes and improved resilience and mood.

3. Stigma Around Mental Illness Is Decreasing

From Olympic gymnast Simone Biles to Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson, more public figures are openly discussing mental health. This shift has led to societal change. Between 1996 and 2018, of those experiencing depression.

4. The Arts Are Good for Mental Health

Engaging in creative expression improves mental, physical, and social health. found that participants in an eight-week, arts-based program reported improved overall well-being, benefits that lasted for months after the program ended.

5. Gratitude and Spirituality Promote Thriving

Practicing gratitude increases happiness, life satisfaction, and emotional resilience. For individuals facing chronic or severe mental health challenges, spirituality has been linked to increased hope and self-confidence.

6. Mental Health Support in the Workplace Is Growing

In one , 80% of large employers reported mental health care as their top focus. From resilience training to teletherapy access, workplaces are becoming more proactive about supporting employee well-being.

7. Technology Is Expanding Access To Care

Digital mental health tools, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-based apps, mindfulness programs, and telehealth platforms, are scalable, effective, and breaking down barriers to access.

8. Nature Supports Emotional Well-Being

Even brief exposure to nature鈥攖hrough walks, photographs, or mindful outdoor experiences鈥攃an reduce anxiety and depression, and increase overall psychological well-being. 鈥淣ature-connectedness is a powerful, often underutilized, tool for mental health,鈥� says  Glassman.

9. Media Is Improving Mental Health Representation

The entertainment industry is becoming more thoughtful in its portrayal of mental health. Recent analyses show a in film and television scripts. Simultaneously, positive mental health storytelling is gaining visibility in news and media outlets.

10. More Schools Are Prioritizing Student Mental Health

Today, offer mental health services鈥攁 significant rise from the early 2010s. This shift is helping young people build emotional skills, access care, and develop resilience early in life.