by Taylor Henson, Casa Grande Alliance
A critical component of our health and wellness is mental health, which refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act daily.
Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and stress can have a significant impact on our ability to function and enjoy life. It’s important to know that mental health issues are common and treatable.
Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health.
For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly such long-lasting conditions as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk for mental illness.
Whether young or old, the importance of mental health for total well-being cannot be overstated. When psychological wellness is affected, the result can cause negative behaviors that may not only affect personal health but also compromise relationships with others.
Here are some suggestions for maintaining our health and wellness:
Talk to someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend or family member, or seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Talking about your experiences can help you process the stress in your life and help you find solutions.
Take care of your physical health: Relax. Spend time with people you care about. Have fun. Reflect and plan. Eat well. Get plenty of regular exercise. Get plenty of rest. Build a strong routine.
Find healthy ways to cope: Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to help manage stress. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music or spending time outdoors.
Set realistic goals: Break larger goals down into smaller, more manageable tasks. Focus on what you can control, not what you can’t.
Seek support: Reach out to friends or family. If that’s not an option, seek help with professionals, therapists, school counselor, etc.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with mental health is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. What’s most important is to figure out what works best for you.
It’s also important to note that seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength. It takes courage to admit when you need help.
Our mental health is a key aspect of our overall well-being; taking good care is important!
Resources:
www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm
www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-mental-health-for-wellbeing-5207938
