MIAMI – May has been the life-saving Mental Health Awareness month in the United States since 1949.
Research about the brain’s adaptability continues to expand, but the power of developing coping skills by being proactive about sleep, diet, and exercise choices has been established.
“Mental illness is at an all-time high,“ said Dr. Jen Brull, of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
The mind-body connection makes it important to find healthy ways to cope with stress and to stay aware of symptoms such as irritability, worries, sadness, and a lack of energy.
“When people have mental illness it impacts every facet of their lives. From what they are doing in their day-to-day, to how they plan their future,” Brull said.
When it comes to giving the mind direction, self-care exercises such as journaling and setting aside time for mindfulness could be helpful when focused on cultivating an attitude of gratitude.
Here are some tips from mental health experts to put into action and share with your loved ones:
- Find a reliable support system and avoid social isolation by delegating time to nurture healthy relationships.
- Focus on having a work-life balance by setting healthy boundaries and finding time for constructive hobbies.
- Without psychological help, adult victims of childhood neglect or abuse tend to engage in self-sabotage. Get help from a licensed mental health professional.
- Suicidal and homicidal ideations are treatable. Get help immediately and call the free 988 Life Line.