Mental Health psa (long post)

So this topic came up quite a bit this past weekend during some bridal activities: where was my missing bridesmaid? Everyone knew I had 4 but only 3 were to be found.
I assured everyone that all was well and that this particular bridesmaid and I had talked previously about her not coming.
You see, one of my girls has been battling anxiety, bipolar, and depression since we were teenagers. I knew she had episodes, and I knew this would possibly hinder her availability, but I still wanted her in my wedding party.
Due to some recent events- the death of a close friend and her mother being in the hospital- one of those episodes came through with full force this past weekend.
She called me crying, guilty for not being able to leave her home. I told her, “I know you’re going through a lot and I know how much it has been affecting you. I love you no matter what and please don’t feel bad. Just message me and let me know you’re Ok so I’m not left wondering. We can celebrate just the two of us another night”.
We’re taking things slowly because I didn’t want to push any obligations on her, just to make matters worse.

So ladies, while we may be caught up in our plans, or focusing on our own mental health these days, please don’t forget about those around you. A simple “how are you?” can go a long way for someone in need.