Do you find yourself feeling down or overwhelmed by circumstances beyond your control? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. One in five adults in the United States experience mental health issues in their lifetime, and the number could be higher since many individuals still do not discuss mental health or seek treatment. May is Mental Health Awareness month, so it is the perfect time to take a look at something that can be easily neglected.
How To Improve Mental Health
It is vital that we take moments to ensure that we are mentally healthy as well as physically healthy. Our mental health can impact our physical health as well. Mental health issues can cause changes in appetite, fatigue, and restlessness.
So what can you do if you’re feeling emotionally low? Here are six ways you can improve your mental health, according to the CDC:
- Take deep breaths, take a walk or meditate: When undergoing a stressful situation, take a deep breath and think slowly about it. Usually, taking a deep breath can calm any nervousness you are facing and help you overcome your stress. Additionally, taking a walk or being active can help relieve some of the stress from situations.
- Eat healthy, well-balanced meals: Diet affects more than the physical aspects of our lives. It also can affect our mental health.
- Get consistent rest: Getting rest is an important aspect of maintaining your mental health. Keep a consistent schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same times. Oversleeping or feeling restless can be a sign of depression, so be aware of any hiccups in your sleep patterns.
- Talk with people you trust: Our friends and family want what’s best for us, so make an effort to check in with people you trust. Human interaction can go a long way in helping us keep mentally healthy.
- Join community organizations/Do activities that you enjoy: Joining community organizations can help in maintaining mental health. It’s something that can take your mind off of things, and enjoy being present with fellow individuals. Alternatively, you can take on hobbies that can ease your mind off of daily stressors.
- Stop watching/reading the news: While some of the news can be uplifting and positive, it can also be filled with dread and negative stories. Take moments out of your day to avoid the news and disconnect for a little bit from your phone.
While these methods are simple, it will take some effort to do these things, as it may require changes to habits that might be ingrained to your daily routines. It is important not to be too harsh on yourself when developing these habits.
How Intermountain Health of Nevada is doing its part
At our myGeneration Clinics, we have a program called Mental Health Integration, which allows our patients to receive care for both mental and physical health through their primary care provider and a specialized care team to offer the best treatment plan for patients.
Maintaining mental health is one way to improve quality of life. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, reach out to your provider. If you are having suicidal ideation, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
*This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis from a physician or qualified healthcare professional.
