Mental health is health.

Your health is top priority. Mental health is just as important as physical health. It deserves your attention and your care. Just as we need to check in with a physician when we are feeling physically sick or have broken a bone or variety of physical symptoms, it’s equally important to check in with a mental health specialist, counselor, or therapist when our mental health is compromised.

Bring your awareness to how you are feeling or what you are experiencing. Keep in mind, people can feel depressed or anxious without having a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety disorder. Mental health conditions depend on the length or intensity of our negative feelings and behaviors.

For example, if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression for at least two weeks, it’s essential to see a medical professional. Mental health conditions are treatable and manageable.

1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year. And 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year and only half receive treatment.

If our mental health challenges are not addressed, this will have a negative impact on our quality of life. Our emotions or how we feel affects our mental health, our relationships, and our ability to carry out activities. Given the very challenging times, it’s essential to seek emotional wellness to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to changing and difficult times.

Here are some suggestions for ways to improve your mental health. Click on each for more information and strategies to also improve your emotional health:

1. Eat well.

2. Exercise regularly.

3. Sleep enough.

4. Build a healthy support system.

5. Celebrate your achievements.

6. Developing a brighter outlook.

7. Reduce stress.

8. Coping with loss.

9. Being present.

In a study presented at the American Public Health Association and the Western Psychological Association, the Tamarkoz method of meditation was demonstrated to significantly decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression while significantly increasing feelings of hope.

Consider ways to support your mental health. Take action. Ask questions and stay informed to help protect and improve your emotional and mental health. Check out https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us/ for common questions and resources.

References:

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Illness-Awareness-Week. 2022.
2. Keck School of Medicine of USC:https://keck.usc.edu/may-is-mental-health-awareness-month/
3. Mental Health is Health. https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us/
4. The United States Health & Human Services.
5. National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov/health-information/emotional-wellness-toolkit
6. Harvard Health Publishing: Nutritional Psychiatry; Your Brain on Food. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626
7. Sadoghi, M., Bahadorani, N. 2021. Implications of tamarkoz meditation on mental health during the lockdown of the COVID19 crisis [Paper presentation]. American Public Health Association (APHA) Conference 2021. Online. https://apha.confex.com/apha/2021/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/500546. (Manuscript in review).