Mental Health Awareness Month 2019

Mental Health Awareness Month 2019

May is mental health awareness month. Mental health has largely been a taboo subject among people for centuries. People who had mental health issues were largely deemed crazy and given unethical and amoral treatment to combat their thoughts. Today, mental health is not only talked about, but it is on the road to becoming less of a stigma. Continue to read more about how to combat the stress that comes with mental health strife.

What is Mental Health?

Mental health is perhaps not as valued as physical health because you can’t tell if someone is mentally ill or has a mood disorder by just looking at them. People who have mood disorders likely will not show any physical symptoms. People who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, or anxiety tend to feel either sadness or panic, fear, and angst. This may influence some of their characterizations like staying in bed, canceling plans, not seeming as engaging as they once were, or generally being withdrawn.

Practicing Good Mental Health

There are a variety of practices that one can do to try to reclaim a healthy outlook on their thoughts. The first step is to remember that many people suffer from mental health issues. About 1 in 2 people will struggle with a mental health issue at some point in their life. Having a mental health issue is completely normal for most people. There are a few steps that are scientifically proven to have changes in our mood.

• Exercise daily to release feel-good hormones
• Get the recommended amount of sleep
• Eat well
• Meditate for 5 to 10 minutes daily
• Practice deep breathing when feeling uncomfortable
• Talk to a friend or family member
• Seek out professional therapy or a psychiatrist
• Attend group support meetings
• Find a hobby that brings you great joy
• Practice self-care like hygiene, and treat yourself to a great nighttime routine
• Spend time outside and in nature

Final Thoughts

Do you have a mental disorder or a mood disorder? Do you feel comfortable talking about it? Are there steps that you have taken that you would encourage others to seek out? Today might be a good day to start asking the people around you how they are. Some of the simplest conversations can make a large impact on those in your community and your social circles. Comment on your experience below.