May is Mental Health Awareness Month- What You Need to Know
- Britta Cabanos
- May 12
- 2 min read
Updated: May 13
The fashion and design industries, with glossy collections, tight deadlines, and a constant push for originality, are full of beauty, inspiration, and innovation. But let's be honest: They can also be incredibly demanding. Many designers struggle with burnout, anxiety, and isolation. This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we're pausing to talk about something often left behind in the hustle: our mental health.
At Inside Fashion Design, caring for your mind is as important as nurturing your craft. So here's your gentle reminder: you don't have to sacrifice your well-being to succeed.
Whether building a sustainable brand, freelancing for clients, working a corporate job or still in school, we offer some tools and tips help you stay grounded, balanced, and creatively fulfilled.
5 Mental Health Tips for Creative Professionals
1. Set Creative Boundaries: Designing under pressure can lead to overwork. Try blocking out "non-creative" hours in your calendar—when you're not designing, sketching, or problem-solving. Give your mind space to recharge. Burnout is not a badge of honor.
2. Embrace Progress Over Perfection: Perfectionism is common in our industry, but it's also exhausting. Reframe your inner dialogue: Every sample, sketch, or pitch is part of your growth. Permit yourself to be a work in progress.
3. Find Community: Creative work can be isolating, especially for freelancers or brand owners. Seek out like-minded creatives by joining a membership group like IFD Connect, attending design events, or simply scheduling regular check-ins with other designers.
4. Move Your Body: Your body is your creative vehicle. Long hours sitting at a sewing machine or screen can affect your mood and focus. Daily walks, yoga, or a 10-minute dance break can reset your mind and energy.
5. Use Mindful Design Practices: Bring intentionality into your creative process. Align your values with your work—whether through sustainable sourcing, honoring your story, or working with ethical makers. Purpose fuels mental resilience.
🧰 Mental Health Resources for Creatives
Here are a few helpful tools we recommend:
The Mindful Designer Toolkit free PDF: A creatives guide which is filled with reflective prompts, wellness practices, and purpose-driven exercises.
BetterHelp: Affordable online therapy tailored to your schedule.
The Designer's Guide to Burnout Recovery: blog post
The Conscious Fashion Design Mini-Course: Ground your work purposefully and reduce overwhelm with this self-paced guide to intentional design.
💬 Let's Talk About It
Feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, or disconnected in your design journey is okay. You're not alone. By opening up about our mental health struggles, we can heal ourselves and create a more supportive, understanding industry for everyone.
This month, we urge you to take a step towards supporting your mental well-being, no matter how small. You have the power to make a positive change in your life.
Tag us on Instagram @insidefashiondesign and share your check-in. Let's start with each other—creatively, mindfully, and humanely.
Obstinate Daughter is one of Charleston’s most loved dining spots, offering a cozy coastal vibe with a touch of Southern charm. From wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood, every bite is a treat. Plan ahead and secure your Obstinate Daughter reservations to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.
ARYA Luxury Apartments offer a perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and modern design. With spacious layouts, premium finishes, and world-class amenities, residents enjoy a lifestyle of sophistication and convenience. Located in a prime area, ARYA provides breathtaking views and refined living for those who seek style and quality.
This article on Mental Health Awareness Month is a great reminder of the importance of recognizing signs, supporting others, and prioritizing our own well-being. It’s an inspiring call to take mental health seriously. For self-care, eyebrow threading Stafford is a simple yet effective way to keep brows neat and defined. It’s quick, precise, and adds a polished touch to your overall look.
Embark on a thrilling deep sea fishing Dubai adventure with Supernova Yachts. Equipped with top gear and guided by expert crew, enjoy catching kingfish, barracuda, and more in Dubai’s rich waters. Ideal for beginners and pros seeking unforgettable moments at sea.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being. It’s a reminder to prioritize self-care, seek support when needed, and engage in habits that promote inner peace. Alongside mental wellness, taking steps to feel confident in your appearance—such as with Laser Hair Removal Redondo Beach—can also contribute positively to your overall sense of well-being.
Ask ChatGPT