| Tweet |
Most of us are, in some way, concerned about our physical health. We exercise, eat our veggies or at least go to the doctor for our annual check-up, all as preventative measures.
Take the same game plan and apply it to your mental health. One of the first questions a doctor will ask at your annual physical is about your family medical history. You’ll share about your grandmother’s high blood pressure and your dad’s diabetes. But how much do you know about your family’s mental health? Do you have a family history of depression or anxiety?
Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning. According to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, early identification and treatment of a mental illness is vital because recovery is accelerated. Being aware of your family’s mental health history is the first step in prevention.
If you have a family history of a specific mental disorder, there’s an increased risk you could be affected by it. If you’re aware of the illness and its symptoms, you can be more cognoscente of your own emotions and the possible warning signs.
Resilience is the key
Mental and emotional health refer to your overall psychological well-being. When you are emotionally and mentally healthy, you are more aware of your feelings and therefore more in control of your behavior.
Being mentally and emotionally healthy means being resilient and having the ability to bounce back from traumatic and stressful experiences. This first comes from recognition.
Start identifying your sources of stress in a stress journal. Ruth Haplin, support and recovery coordinator for NAMI Beaufort County, refers to Harvard Medical School’s Family Guide and says stress is getting the best of you when your “emotional symptoms include edginess, inability to make decisions, trouble thinking clearly and incessant worrying.” Once you know what causes your stress, try to change the situation or alter your reaction to it.
Be in tune with your feelings; recognize them, express them and be able to balance them without being overwhelmed. This helps avoid feeling consumed by negative emotions, which can lead to anxiety and depression.
Mind-body connection
There is a saying that a healthy mind depends on a health body. Taking care of your body is the first step toward improving your mental and emotional health. Exercise releases endorphins, which lift our mood and spirits. Here are other ways to boost overall good health.
- Get plenty of rest
- Practice good nutrition
- Limit alcohol and cigarette consumption
Haplin also recommends taking care of yourself on a personal level by not putting yourself last on the priority list, delegating responsibilities, finding time to do things you enjoy, practicing relaxation techniques and not ignoring the signals that something is distressing you.
Despite all your efforts to prevent mental illness, it might still occur, however. Haplin says if someone is feeling “emotionally off-center” or having trouble eating, sleeping or getting out of bed; then it’s time to talk to a counselor or psychologist. The mental health professional may help them find solutions they didn’t even know existed.
NAMI Beaufort County is having its Fifth Walks for the Mind of America on Saturday, Oct.16 at Coligny Beach. For more information, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
How to get help
If you’re experiencing emotions beyond your control, call the Coastal Empire Community Mental Health Center at 681-4865.
5 facts about mental health
1. Mental illnesses are serious medical illnesses. They cannot be overcome through "will power" and are not related to a person's character or intelligence.
2. The U.S. Surgeon General reports that 10 percent of children and adolescents in the United States suffer from serious emotional and mental disorders.
3. The World Health Organization has reported that four of the 10 leading causes of disability in the U.S. and other developed countries are mental disorders. By 2020, major depressive illness will be the leading cause of disability in the world for women and children.
4. All ages are susceptible, but the young and the old are especially vulnerable.
5. With appropriate treatment, most people who live with serious mental illnesses can significantly reduce the impact of their illness and find a satisfying measure of achievement and independence. Early identification and treatment is of vital importance.
