What’s good y’all!

It’s June, and that means it’s officially summer. The heat is on, and if the sweat rolling down my back is any indication, the humidity is kicking my ass too. But the heat isn’t the only thing we should be paying attention to—June is also Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.

Summer Heat, Cool Minds: June’s Guide to Men’s Mental Health

This month is a perfect opportunity for men (and the men in your life) to slow down, get mindful, and check in with themselves. But what does that even mean? For starters, it’s about making sure your actions line up with your values. You want to get more fit? Ask yourself: if someone watched your daily routine, would they see someone who cares about their fitness? Or do you say you want more “me time,” but end up accommodating everyone else until you’re left with nothing for yourself?

Sometimes, the most powerful tool in your toolkit is a strategic “No.” Not sure what that looks like? Check out my TikTok where I break it down: Strategic No TikTok.

Have you been putting off the things you really want to do? Are you letting others—your partner, your job, your family—make decisions for you? Even something as simple as choosing what you want to eat can be a step toward reclaiming your agency and building the habit of going after what you want.

Quick Tips for Men This Month

1. Treat yourself like a baddie
   Self-care isn’t selfish. Treat yourself with the same kindness and respect you’d give someone you admire. Watch the TikTok

2. It’s okay to say No
   Setting boundaries is a sign of self-respect and mental strength. The No doesn’t have to be no forever, it can just mean not right now.

3. Take 5 minutes to just breathe
   Pause, breathe deeply, and remind yourself that you’re alive and cared for.

4. Move your body!
   Physical activity is a proven mood booster. Circle the block, stand up from your desk, walk, crawl, run, just move.

5. Rest/Sleep
   Your mind and body need downtime to recharge. A tired you is not the best you.

6. Ask for what you need
   When loved ones ask what you need, tell them. It’s not a trick question—they really want to know.

Challenge yourself to try at least one of these tips this month. Share your experience with us—we’d love to hear how it goes!

Stay cool, stay mindful, take care of yourselves, and remember, We Up! See you next month!

P.S. Happy Juneteenth, however you decide to celebrate, I hope you have a great time and eat some good food.