One in five adults in the United States lives with a mental illness, making it one of the most common health conditions in the country. Yet, despite its prevalence, mental illness is often misunderstood and stigmatized. This can make it difficult for those who are struggling to seek help.
Mental Health Month was founded in 1949 to raise public awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing in people’s lives and celebrate recovery from mental illness.
Why is awareness of mental health so important?
With an estimated 44 million adults and 17 million young people in the United States experiencing a mental illness each year, the need for effective strategies and approaches to educate people on the early signs of mental illness and how to access mental health services is critical.
A person’s overall health is dependent on their mental health. Prevention, treatment, and recovery from mental disorders are possible if you have the proper support.
Why is mental health important?
Mental health affects everyone. It is just as important to take care of your mental health as your physical health because each affects the other. If you’re not physically healthy, you can develop psychological health symptoms. On the other hand, if you have chronic stress and anxiety and it goes untreated, it can lead to long-term health issues.
Unfortunately, there is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental health. This can make it difficult for people to get the help and support they need.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to break down these barriers and open up the conversation about psychological health. By raising awareness and increasing understanding, we can create a more supportive and inclusive society for those who need it. By working together, we can help reduce the stigma around mental illness and make it easier for people to get the help they need.
How you can help stop the stigma
There are many ways to help reduce the stigma around mental health. One way is to talk about it openly and honestly. This can help people realize that they are not alone in their experiences. It can also help dispel some myths and stereotypes surrounding it.
Another way to reduce the stigma around mental health is to advocate for change. You can do this by supporting organizations working to break down the barriers people face with mental illness. You can also speak up when you see or hear someone making fun of or discriminating against someone with a mental health condition.
Self-care is essential to mental health
Self-care is essential to maintaining mental wellbeing. Self-care helps prevent burnout, manage stress, and keep us resilient in the face of adversity.
You can do many simple things to take care of yourself mentally and emotionally. Here are some ideas to get you started:
• Connect with others. Spend time with family and friends, or reach out to someone new. Socializing can help boost your mood and improve your outlook on life.
• Get active. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. A moderate amount of exercise is the key – too much or too little can actually have adverse effects on your psychological health.
• Be mindful. Practice mindfulness or meditation to help you focus on the present moment and let go of stressful thoughts.
• Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
• Eat healthily. A nutritious diet can help to improve your mood and energy levels. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
• Take breaks. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a few minutes to yourself to relax and rejuvenate. Take a hot bath, read your favorite book, or take a walk outdoors.
• Seek professional help. If you’re struggling to cope with stress or anxiety, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. Talking to someone who can provide support and guidance can be extremely helpful.
Making self-care a priority is essential for maintaining mental wellbeing. You’ll be better equipped to deal with life’s challenges and enjoy a more positive outlook on life by taking care of yourself.
Common mental health issues
There are many mental health conditions, but the two most commonly diagnosed are anxiety disorders and depression.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Nearly one-third of all adults in the U.S. will suffer from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety disorders can be debilitating and prevent people from living their lives to the fullest potential.
Anxiety is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences at one time or another. It is the feeling of apprehension, fear, or worry. Some anxiety is normal and healthy. It can motivate us to take action and help us stay alert and safe. But when anxiety becomes excessive, it can be disabling.
Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive and persistent worry and fear that are out of proportion to the actual situation. This can lead to physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweaty palms, and difficulty breathing. People with anxiety disorders may also experience feeling tense, restless, and on edge. They may have trouble sleeping or concentrating, and they may avoid places or situations they know will trigger their anxiety.
Depression is a mental disorder characterized by persistent low mood and loss of interest, accompanied by other symptoms such as poor concentration and decreased energy. It is more than just feeling blue or sad and can significantly affect a person’s ability to function at work or school and enjoy hobbies and social activities.
Some common symptoms of depression include:
-Persistent sad, empty, or anxious mood
-Loss of interest in favorite activities
-Significant weight loss or gain, or decrease or increase in appetite
-Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping)
-Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
-Fatigue or loss of energy
-Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
-Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
-Thoughts of death or suicide
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to find mental health services near you and get evaluated. Depression is a manageable condition, and there are many effective treatments available.
How do you know when it’s time to seek treatment?
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental illness, resources are available to help. If you’re experiencing mental health symptoms, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Here are some signs that it might be time to seek treatment:
-You’re feeling hopeless or helpless
-You’re not enjoying activities that you used to enjoy
-You’re withdrawing from friends and family
-You’re using alcohol or drugs to cope
-You’re having suicidal thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to get help. Mental health treatment can make a big difference in your life. If you’re struggling, contact Serene Health – we would love to help you. We have several behavioral health and mental health services available. We also offer flexible appointments through our telehealth platform so that you can speak to a therapist online from the location of your choice. Call us at 844-737-3638 or visit us at www.serenehealth.com to schedule an appointment.