Contest is CLOSED, but feel free to continue interacting. Thank you to all who participated!

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We are quickly approaching May, which is National Mental Health Month. For this contest all you have do is read and participate.

Core beliefs are thoughts that we come to believe as true over time. They guide our behaviors and impact how we see ourselves and others. Whether you notice it or not, you're always affirming what you believe through your experiences, while you're also ignoring the things that you don't. For example, if you had the core belief that a lot of people wear yellow, you'd start noticing every yellow shirt you saw, but if you don't hold that belief, then you probably don't remember the last time you saw someone wearing that color. So when we have negative core beliefs, we essentially convince ourselves that we and/or others are no good, which heavily influences our behaviors, fears, and anxieties. But once you start to make the connection, you can challenge them.

So for this contest, I am challenging everyone to come up with 1 negative core belief they have about themselves, the world, or others, and write it. Next, come up with a positive affirmation that counters that negative belief.

Example: Negative core belief- "Nobody cares what I have to say", Positive affirmation- "My opinions are important and worthy of being heard."

Lastly, repeat the positive affirmation as much as you can throughout the month of May (I obviously can't verify this, so scout's honor). The idea is that over time, exposing yourself to positive beliefs about yourself will help open your mind, build self-confidence and lessen anxieties.

RULES:

-Follow the above instructions.

-Please try to reply to at least one other person's comment. Even something as simple as letting them know they're not alone can make a difference. We aren't qualified to provide medical advice, but we can provide validation and support.

-Open worldwide (please have an e-gift card on your list if you're not in the US).

-Have something for $10 or less on your wishlist that you feel would help with your mental health. Feel free to tell me what it is and which list it's on. If there are multiple items, let me know 'cause I like having options.

-Contest ends on or before Saturday night. At least 1 winner. Winner(s) may or may not be chosen either randomly or based on the amount of effort put into the activity.

-DBAD and don't link your list

If you are in crisis, you don't have to go through it alone. Text CARE to 893863, or call the US Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.