Here are some well-known inspirational quotes about mental health that remind us to be strong and stay the course:
1. “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.” ― Erik Erikson
Erik Erikson was the author of several important and influential books on childhood development, the life cycle, and other related topics. This is just one of many Erikson quotes that have gained attention for its insight and ability to inspire. This quote tells us that it’s okay to look to others when we need support or encouragement. It’s also a reminder that the people in our lives need our reciprocal support as well. [middle-callout]
2. “There is a crack, a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” ― Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen was a poet and singer-songwriter. This quote comes from his song “Anthem.” The quote reminds us that we all have our flaws and weaknesses, but they are not necessarily something to hide or fix. In fact, these “cracks” in our lives are sometimes what brings us to the light.
3. “What if you moved through the world as if you were easy to be loved? Because I promise you, you are easy to love.” ― Sonalee Rashatwar, LCSW
Many of us mistakenly believe we are hard to love, especially if we have a history of trauma or mental health issues. This belief leads to further problems, including low self-esteem and self-worth. Sonalee Rashatwar points out that this is an insecurity that exists only in your mind. If you begin realizing and respecting your own value, life gets easier.
4. “Tough times never last, but tough people do!” ― Dr. Robert Schuller
Evangelist and author Dr. Robert Schuller not only penned this quote, but used it as the title of a book he published in 1984. The message behind this quote is that, even though you may be struggling through a difficult time, all of the negative feelings and circumstances you experience will only be temporary. If you can stay strong and keep the faith, you will come out on the other side.
5. “What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” ― Glenn Close
Stigmas surrounding mental health issues often prevent people from having productive conversations about these topics. However, having these conversations and shining light on mental health issues only serves to improve mental health for everyone. When you don’t feel the need to hide your struggles with mental health, you will feel less alone, and healing will become easier.
6. “Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” ― Dr. Laura Fogel Mersy
Dr. Laura Fogel Mersy is a licensed psychologist. With this quote, she is speaking to the importance of authenticity. Learning to understand and accept your true self makes you a stronger, more well-adjusted person. We should all live each day with the freedom to be who we truly are without apology.
7. “We are not our trauma. We are not our brain chemistry. That’s part of who we are, but we’re so much more than that.” ― Sam J. Miller
Author Sam J. Miller’s quote about trauma and brain chemistry addresses the essence of what makes us human. It is common for people who struggle with mental health issues to feel like their issues define them. However, these problems are only a part of the person. There is so much more to a human being than their struggles alone.
8. “It’s up to you today to start making healthy choices. Not choices that are just healthy for your body, but healthy for your mind.”― Steve Maraboli
Although we must depend on one another for support, we are ultimately responsible for our own choices. Every one of us can make choices that are good for our bodies, minds, and spirits. It is never too late to start making these choices and improving your mental health.
9. “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Fredrick Douglass
No struggle is enjoyable. However, in most cases, progress will not be made without hard work. When you’re struggling with your mental health and working through difficult issues, think about how far you have come and what you would like to accomplish in the future.
10. “There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” — John Green
When you’re struggling, it’s easy to lose hope. However, John Green, author of The Fault in Our Stars and other novels, reminds us that our struggles are temporary. Even when you don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, it’s always there.