Mental Health Awareness Week: Tips on Taking Care of Your Mental Health
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and we wanted to provide you with tips on how to improve your mental health. Mental health illness impacts millions of Americans each year; it is time to stop the stigma and have the conversation around what we can do to help fight this widespread illness. We want to educate people on how common mental illness is, and understand the impact on those suffering physical, social, and financial well being.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness:
1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.
1 in 25 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year.
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34.
You are not alone and Mental Health care MATTERS. Below are 5 tips that will help you improve your mental health.
Socialize
The human species are social beings that need face to face connection or quality time with others to function properly. Do not underestimate the power of conversation with a person you care about. Don’t get us wrong, alone time might be needed to recharge your batteries, but spending time with others can satisfy our social brains craving for companionship.
Move Your Body
The connection between the mind and the body is strong and it is important to understand. When moving your body, the body releases endorphins, the most powerful chemicals that lift your mood and provide extra energy. This doesn’t mean you have to go for a 3 mile jog everyday. Moving your body might look like going for a walk, trying a yoga class, or having a dance party by yourself. Start moving right now and you’ll notice a difference in your quality of life.
Manage Stress
Stress can negatively impact your mental and emotional health. There are several stress management strategies to help you take control of your stressors such as talk to a loved one or spending time with someone friendly. You can also do something that makes you feel good, like going to a movie or cooking. You should engage in purposeful relaxation such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing to help manage stress.
Quality Sleep
Your body needs to spend time in the most relaxed state possible for 7-9 hours a night. Quality sleep is so important for mental sharpness, mood, energy and ability to handle stressors. Help your brain by going to bed and waking up at similar times each day. Also, unplug from technology two hours before bedtime to allow your brain to unwind from the day.
Find Purpose
Everyone living needs purpose and meaning in life in order to feel fulfilled. This does not mean you have to be the next President, it simply can be anything that excites you to do when you wake up everyday. For some people, this means caring for a loved one or a pet, or maybe volunteering. People who find fulfillment in their typically lead a happier life. Find a purpose in your career to truly feel productive in your everyday.
When you are feeling like you’ve done all you can yourself to improve your mental and emotional help and are not finding any relief, it is time to seek professional help. Asking for help makes you strong and smart. We are here for you and we want to help you.
If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency that cannot wait, call 911. If it can wait, walk in at Forsythia Urgent Behavioral Health Care Clinic Mon-Fri 1-5pm. Or call the national sucide prevention hotline, available 24 hours everyday 1-800-273-8255