It’s hard to talk about mental health. People might think that they’re “crazy” or that there is something wrong with them if they have thoughts or feelings that are out of the norm. The fact is, mental health is just like physical health – it’s something that we all have and need to take care of in order to stay healthy. In this blog post, I will share 5 real-life lessons about mental health that I hope will help break down some of the stigmas around this topic.
Lesson # One:
Our emotional, mental, and social well-being are all aspects of mental health. It has an impact on how we think, feel, and act as we deal with life’s challenges. It also plays a role in how we react to stress and interact with others. Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from toddlerhood through adulthood. Mental health is something that we all have and need to take care of. Just like our physical health, our mental health is important and should be taken seriously.
Lesson # Two:
Mental illnesses are serious disorders that may influence your thinking, mood, and behavior. They can be occasional or persistent. They might impact how well you interact with others and conduct basic daily activities. Mental illness is widespread; more than half of all Americans will be diagnosed at some point in their lives with one. However, there are treatments available.
There is no easy way to determine whether or not someone has a mental illness. Trying to tell the difference between what’s expected behavior and what might be a sign of a mental illness can be difficult, especially if you don’t know the person well.
Lesson # Three:
Mental health is not “crazy.” Just because someone has thoughts or feelings that are out of the norm doesn’t mean that they are crazy. It indicates they are suffering from an illness with severe symptoms, similar to diabetes. While mental disease might alter your thoughts, panic attacks and anxiety can affect your moods, and perceptions of reality may be skewed, that does not make you or anyone else “crazy.” It means you are human and are susceptible to sickness and illness, the same as any other person. Most people with mental illnesses are just like you and me – they are people who are trying to live their lives the best that they can.
Lesson # Four:
Mental health is something that we should all be talking about. It’s important to talk about mental health because it helps break down the stigma around this topic. Discussing mental health is a wonderful way to increase social acceptance for persons who are suffering from mental disorders and encourage them to get help, learn how to deal with their problems, and move toward recovery. Maintaining a good mental state is also part of mental health. When we talk openly and honestly about mental health, we help to create a society where people feel safe and comfortable seeking help when they need it.
Lesson # Five:
There is help available for those who need it. If you are struggling with your mental health, know that there is help available. You don’t have to suffer in silence – there are people who can help you get the support that you need. If you think that you may have a mental health problem, get help. Talk therapy and/or medicines can treat mental disorders. If you don’t know where to start, contact your primary care provider.
Why is mental health important?
Mental health is important because it can help you to:
- Cope with the stresses of life
- Be physically healthy
- Have good relationships
- Make meaningful contributions to your community
- Work productively
- Realize your full potential
Your mental well-being is also crucial since it may influence your physical health. Mental illnesses, for example, can raise your chances of developing physical health issues such as stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
What are the signs that I might have a mental health problem?
It’s difficult to know what constitutes normal when it comes to your emotions. You may have a mental health issue if you experience one of the following warning signals:
- A change in your eating or sleeping habits
- Withdrawing from the people and activities you enjoy
- Having low or no energy
- Feeling numb or like nothing matters
- Having unexplained aches and pains
- Feeling helpless or hopeless
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
- Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, angry, upset, worried, or scared
- Having severe mood swings that cause problems in your relationships
- Having thoughts and memories that you can’t get out of your head
- Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
- Thinking of harming yourself or others
- Not being able to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school
What can affect my mental health?
There are many different factors that can affect your mental health, including:
- Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry
- Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse
- Family history of mental health problems
- Your lifestyle, such as diet, physical activity, and substance use
- You can also impact your mental health by taking measures to enhance it, such as meditating, employing relaxation methods, and cultivating thankfulness.
Can my mental health change over time?
Your mental health can fluctuate over time. You might be confronting a tough circumstance, such as coping with a chronic disease, caring for a sick loved one, or dealing with money difficulties. The circumstances may drain you and leave you unable to cope. This can make your mental health worse. Therapy, on the other hand, may help you feel better
A few tips that can help maintain your mental health and wellbeing:
- spend time with friends, loved ones and people you trust
- talk about or express your feelings regularly
- reduce alcohol consumption
- avoid illicit drug use
- keep active and eat well
- develop new skills and challenge your capabilities
- relax and enjoy your hobbies
- set realistic goals
- take time out
- get enough sleep.
I hope that these five lessons will help to break down some of the stigmas around mental health and encourage people to talk openly about this important topic. Mental health is something that we should all be aware of and talk about – it’s time to end the silence. If you are struggling with your mental health, know that there is help available. You don’t have to suffer in silence – there are people who can help you get the support that you need.
Contact you primary care doctor for more information about resources in your area.