Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather and share a meal with family. Thanksgiving is also National Family Health History Day, so it’s the perfect time to talk about your family’s mental health history.

Why does this matter?

Mental health conditions, like depression or anxiety, can run in families. Knowing your family’s past can help you understand your own wellness. After all, caring for our minds is just as important as caring for our bodies. While you are sitting around the table this year, try asking a few gentle questions about the past.

You can ask things like:

• “Did anyone in our family ever struggle with deep sadness or worry?”
• “Do you remember any relatives who had a hard time coping with stress?”
• “Did anyone seek help for their mental wellness?”

Remember:

• If these questions feel too heavy, keep the chat short.
• Older relatives might have different words for mental health, and that is okay.
• Write down what you learn so you can share it at your next doctor’s visit.

How To Check In On Yourself

If the holidays bring up tough emotions, you are not alone. Online screening is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. If you are, support is available.

Click the button below to get a free, confidential screening now.