October Is National Depression and Mental Health Screening awareness month. In addition to ADHD Awareness, this month is filled with educational information on the importance of mental health. World Mental Health Day was celebrated for the first time on October 10, 1992.
As we promote mental health advocacy in 2021, let’s spread awareness of resources that may be beneficial to our own communities. Mental Health is described as being in a “State of well-being.” Our cognitive thinking, behavior, emotions are all apart of. our psychological & social well-being. All of these things determine how we may cope with stress. According to the National Institute of Mental Health; stress is how the brain responds to any demand.
When focusing on a persons overall health, mental health poses a significant role in treatment, recovery & coping. Mental Health Screenings are just as important as your routine physical exams. Screenings are important to preventative care & intervention. These tests help evaluators detect any signs of abnormalities and begin treatment for those who are at risk o of mental health disorders or currently experiencing concerning symptoms. Self screening is one way to evaluate your mental wellness.
Here are a list of symptoms often presented with mental health issues:
- Feeling sad or down.
- Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate.
- Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt.
- Extreme mood changes of highs and lows.
- Withdrawal from friends and activities.
- Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping.
Here are some tips on self-care that may help improve your over all wellness:
- Treat yourself with kindness and respect.
- Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health.
- Surround yourself with good people.
- Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else.
- Learn how to deal with stress.
- Try meditating
- Set realistic goals.
- Avoid drugs and alcohol.
- Get help when you need it.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health it is encouraged that you seek professional treatment. Early intervention is important in recovery. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience thoughts about suicide, hurting yourself, or hurting others.
What is alternative treatment?
Alternative therapy encompasses a variety of disciplines that includes everything from your diet and exercise to your mental conditioning and your lifestyle. Examples of alternative therapies include:
- Herbal remedies: Herbal remedies are made from plants and are used from treatment of various health diagnosis.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of healing that prevents and cures specific diseases and conditions. - Reflexology: For this treatment, the reflexologist applies pressure to different pressure points on your feet, hands, ears and face.
- Exercise: In general, exercise is a safe and easy way to improve your well-being.
- Meditation: Meditation is a form of relaxation and introspection.
- Massage: Massage uses touch to promote relaxation while decreasing tension and stress.
- Guided imagery: Guided imagery is a form of focused relaxation that helps create harmony between the mind and body.
- Yoga: Yoga is a type of exercise and spiritual practice.
- Deep breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths in, then slowly exhaling, while your mind focuses on the breath.
The stigma surrounding mental health often leads people to shy away from seeking the help and support they need, leaving them to face discrimination and exclusion. It is important that we educate our communities on the importance of self-care, intervention & treatment for all. Making health care more accessible to those who are at higher risk of mental disorders.
Mental Health Professionals all play a vital role in treatment, talking to your provider will determine the best course of treatment such as Medication Management, Psychotherapy or in combination. Mental health issues do not get better on their own. The longer an illness persists, the more difficult it can be to treat and recover. For example untreated anxiety may escalate to panic attacks, and failing to address trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. Bringing awareness to illnesses such ADHD provides education, advocacy, and support for children and adults living with ADHD and their families.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health it is encouraged that you seek professional treatment. Early intervention is important in recovery. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience thoughts about suicide, hurting yourself, or hurting others.
Remember, you should always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Never stop taking your medications or start an alternative therapy without approval and supervision of your medical physician.
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