Recently, I was driving past a mental health clinic in Salina and saw a vehicle I recognized. It was of an individual in some of my social circles.

My immediate thought was, “I wonder what they’re there for?”

After a brief moment, I gave myself a mental shake. I chastised myself. This individual’s presence at that location was absolutely none of my business. I recalibrated my mind and worked to instead think, “Good for them for having the courage and strength to sit down with a professional to discuss whatever it is they need to discuss.”

I have written in the past about my support for mental health resources. I want to once again affirm my encouragement for seeking mental health resources, especially during May, which is designated as Mental Health Month. I want to remind myself, as much as others, that it takes an immense amount of moxie to sit down with a professional in the mental health field.

In fact, there is a second recent example when I had to recalibrate my mind and give someone a mental high five instead of having a surprised or shocked reaction.

The most recent was when I was listening to a podcast. This is a rarity for me, as I tend to be an audio book “reader.”

I was editing photos on my computer, listening to the podcast and my acquaintance referenced marital counseling.

It’s a good thing I was sitting down. I was shocked.

Again, after a brief mental shake, I gave this individual a mental high five for openly acknowledging that some professions come with greater stress for a marriage. But this acquaintance didn’t sit in the stress and let it overtake their marriage. They took the time to sit down and seek professional guidance, and then they mentioned it on a very public platform.

Did I mention this is one of the most introverted humans I know? I literally gave them a mental double high five.

It’s not easy to do. Humble pie isn’t my favorite, and it probably doesn’t make a difference if that dish is served hot or cold. It’s a hard one to swallow.

I’m so glad, though, that I am seeing friends and acquaintances openly be present at counseling clinics or casually discussing counseling on a podcast relating to their profession.

Normalizing assistance and support for mental health is essential. It helps our friends, family and loved ones feel safe.

I know it’s a cliche, but “It’s OK to not be OK.”

I appreciate our community in Ellsworth, where I feel safe to freely answer questions. When I ran into a work acquaintance, they asked “How are you?” My response was, “Do you want my polite answer or do really want to know how I feel?” Because let’s face it, there’s a difference.

I appreciate being able to freely share that I’m burning the proverbial candle at both ends, haven’t cooked a meal in a month and could use a nap, gosh darn it.

Need assistance? Resources are available at mhanational.org.

Bonar is the editor/publisher of the I-R and can be reached via email at kbonar@indyrepnews.com.