May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
This is Sharon's story....
Sharon was diagnosed with a mental illness when she was in college. It was the second day of finals when the campus police called her mother stating that she had been pacing the halls all night long. When her mother talked to her, it seemed that she was confused and her thoughts were illogical.
Sharon said she knew something was wrong, but wasn’t sure what was going on. She thought if she changed her diet and got more exercise, everything would be fine. Sharon was diagnosed with a serious mental health condition (schizo-effective disorder). Her experience has included having difficulty organizing her thoughts, speaking in a way that doesn’t make sense to others, and behaving in ways that seem odd to most people. Though her condition is considered to be on the mild side, left unchecked she is vulnerable to more severe results.
What can I do? Turn Awareness to Action
You are not alone. We are in this together. Just like we manage diabetes and get treatment for cancer, our mental health requires continued evaluation, attention, and care.
Supporting family and friends:
- Be Patient: Allow family members the opportunity to share information about their health based on their own terms. Give your family the space to navigate and manage their condition.
- Be Inclusive: Include them in family gathers and events. Acknowledge their accomplishments. Encourage their hobbies and interests.
- Set Boundaries: Establish guidelines that outline when and how family should assist in and during a mental health episode or when behaviors become inappropriate.
Whether we're working to manage life stresses or have a mild (or serious) mental health diagnosis, help is available.
Let's turn our awareness into action by taking steps to acknowledge and manage our mental health:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support mental wellbeing.
- Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress and improve focus.
- Maintain social connections with family, friends, and community to combat loneliness and build support.
- Engage in regular exercise, such as walking or jogging, to release endorphins and boost mood.
- Identify stressors and develop healthy coping mechanisms like relaxation techniques, hobbies, or time in nature.
- Prioritize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to fuel your mind and body.
- Incorporate activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature, to de-stress and relax.
- If you're struggling, consider reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or support group for professional guidance.