May is Mental Health Awareness Month

What is Mental Health?

Mental Health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.  It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life.  It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.  Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

What are Mental Illnesses?

Mental illnesses are serious disorders which can affect your thinking, mood, and behavior.  They may be occasional or long-lasting.  They can affect your ability to relate to others and function each day.  Mental disorders are common; more than half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some time in their life.  But there are treatments.  People with mental health problems can get better, and many of them recover completely.

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

How can I improve my Mental Health?

Stay Positive                                                Practice gratitude

Be physically active                                    Connect with others

Learn to manage/eliminate stress           Get enough sleep

Get help to develop coping skills              Meditate

Volunteer                                                      Grow a flower or vegetable garden

Learn relaxation technics                           Let go of grudges and bitterness

Learn to manage anger                               Practice “Mindfulness” technics

Resourced from https://medlineplus.gov/mentalhealth.html