Embracing Being Human this Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder to slow down, check in with ourselves, and remember that caring for our mental wellbeing is just as important as caring for our physical health.
To explore this theme a little deeper, we sat down with Bronte Civill, one of our psychologists to chat about everyday mental health, common misconceptions, and what it really means to embrace being human — messy bits and all.
What is a simple daily habit you recommend for reducing stress?
Sometimes, the smallest shifts can make the biggest difference. Bronte recommends scheduling an intentional break from devices each day — even just for a few minutes.
“Put your phone on Do Not Disturb and give yourself some space from constant notifications. Bonus points if you take a step outside or let natural light flow through your home. Even a few minutes of quiet and sunlight can help your nervous system reset and bring a real sense of calm.”
In a world that’s always “on”, this little pocket of peace can be a powerful act of self-care.
Is there a common misconception about mental health you'd like to correct?
One of the biggest barriers to seeking support is the belief that experiencing mental health challenges means there’s something “wrong” with us. Bronte gently reminds us that this couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Mental health is simply part of being human. We’re all learning, growing, and figuring things out as we go. Life can be really tough at times, and struggling doesn’t make you any less worthy — it just makes you human.”
This perspective helps reframe mental health not as a weakness, but as a shared experience that connects us all.
Why is Mental Health Awareness Important?
When we talk openly about mental health, we create space for understanding, empathy, and connection.
“Awareness helps break the stigma and gets people talking again — reconnecting in real, meaningful ways. We’re all human, beautifully imperfect, and designed to experience a full range of emotions. Every feeling has a purpose and deserves space to be felt.”
You don’t have to be happy all the time to belong. Awareness reminds us that every emotion — joy, sadness, frustration, hope — plays its own important role in our wellbeing.
Do you have a favourite quote or aspiration that inspires you?
Bronte shared a line from a song that continues to resonate deeply:
“She is perfectly misaligned.”
“There’s power in those words — a reminder that being a little different, a little outside the box, is something to embrace, not fix. Growth doesn’t have to look neat or polished. Sometimes it’s in the messiness, humour, and imperfection that we really find ourselves.”
A powerful reminder
This Mental Health Awareness Month, take time to pause, reflect, and reconnect — with yourself and with those around you. Your mental health matters, your feelings are valid, and you don’t need to have everything perfectly aligned to be doing okay.
Even small acts — stepping outside, checking in with a friend, or taking that much-needed phone break — can be powerful steps toward a calmer, more connected you.