May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and understanding about mental health. Women often play a crucial role in managing wellness for themselves and their family members. We’ve compiled 10 essential things to know about mental health to help you navigate this important aspect of health.
1. MENTAL HEALTH IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS PHYSICAL HEALTH
Mental health is the part of our physical health that affects how we think, feel, and act. It influences our ability to manage stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Just like all other aspects of physical health, mental health needs regular attention and care. Prioritizing mental wellness can lead to a happier, healthier life for you and your loved ones.
2. MENTAL ILLNESS IS MORE COMMON THANK YOU THINK
Approximately one in every five U.S. children, teens and adults experiences a mental health condition each year. The three most common mental illnesses are depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. In addition to these three, other common issues for children are attention deficit disorder, behavioral issues, and autism spectrum disorders.
3. MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS ARE TREATABLE
Mental health conditions are treatable, and most people recover and lead fulfilling lives. Treatment options include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups. Seeking help at the first sign of a problem can significantly improve outcomes. It's important to seek professional help if you experience any of the following:
- Feelings of sadness, irritability, or hopelessness lasting for more than two weeks.
- Anxiety or worry that disrupts your daily life and is hard to control.
- Difficulty moving past a traumatic event or loss.
- Mood swings or irritability that affect your relationships and daily functioning.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- No longer finding joy in activities you once enjoyed.
- Difficulty managing your use of a substance or use that is causing issues in relationships or with your ability to function effectively.
4. WOMEN FACE UNIQUE MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES
Women need to be aware that changes within their body can contribute to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Hormonal changes during menarche, menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause can impact mental wellbeing. If you’re not feeling like yourself or experiencing some of the symptoms listed above during these times, make sure to talk to your physician.
5. MENTAL ILLNESS AFFECTS CHILDREN AND TEENS
Approximately one in five young people in the U.S. will deal with a mental health issue at some point during their youth. In fact, about 13% of children aged 8 to 13 experience a diagnosable mental health condition each year. However, these struggles often go unrecognized because the symptoms can be mistaken for typical developmental changes or dismissed as moodiness or behavior problems. Additionally, young people may not have the words to express what they’re feeling, and stigma around mental health can make families hesitant to seek help. As a result, many children and teens suffer in silence without the support or treatment they need.
6. SELF-CARE IS ESSENTIAL
Activities that promote relaxation, joy, and well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones are a vital part of maintaining good mental health. Taking time for yourself is not selfish; it's necessary! Keep your mental wellness tank full by doing activities you enjoy and reduce stress. Ideas include:
- Engaging in mindfulness activities like paying more attention to your senses (i.e. “taking time to smell the roses”), yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to improve sleep, reduce stress, and decrease burnout.
- Regular physical activity, which boosts mood and energy levels.
- Making sure you don’t skip meals and fill those meals with nutritious foods that provide your mind with good fuel.
- Spending time with friends and family to build a support network
- Limiting time spent on electronic devices—especially in the hours right before bed—to help improve sleep and reduce anxiety.
- Creating an environment conducive to sleep by getting screens out of your bedroom, limit light in the room, and make sure the room is dark and quiet.
- Working to get at least eight hours of sleep each night, as it’s essential for emotional regulation and mental clarity.
- Setting realistic goals and break large tasks into smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Finding activities you enjoy to relax and unwind.
7. MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH ARE CLOSELY LINKED
People who have chronic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, cancer, epilepsy, heart disease, HIV/AIDS, hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis, and pain are at a higher risk of developing depression. People who have depression are at higher risk of developing certain chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, pain, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Managing your physical and mental health conditions can improve your overall health and quality of life.
8. STIGMA PREVENTS PEOPLE FROM SEEKING HELP
Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent people from seeking the help they need. Educating yourself and others about mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek treatment. Having open conversations about mental health and not blaming or shaming individuals struggling with their mental health creates a more supportive environment.
9. MANY FREE MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE
Multiple resources are available to help with mental health issues including hotlines, online support groups, and local mental health services. If you’re not sure where to turn, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Their counselors can discuss mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use, and other concerns and direct you to resources.
10. YOU ARE NOT ALONE
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, remember that you are not alone. Millions of people face similar challenges, and there is a community of support available. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Connecting with others who are going through or have experienced what you are is often a powerful step towards recovery.
MORE INFORMATION ON MENTAL HEALTH, RELATIONSHIPS AND WELLBEING
Pine Rest has a free library of articles on a wide variety of topics to support your family’s mental health, relationships and wellbeing from Pine Rest experts and vetted mental health resources. Visit: pinerest.org/newsroom.
Courtesy of Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.
