going deeper

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Mental illness is a physical illness of the brain that affects 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 youth aged 6-17 each year. Mental health affects how we think, feel and act.

Only half of the people struggling with their mental health receive treatment, often due to the stigma attached to it. The two most common mental health conditions are:

• Anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and specific phobias.
• Mood disorders, such as depression and bi-polar disorder

It can be hard to identify mental illness. Recognizing the signs is the first step to getting help. Some common signs may be:

• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Have low or no energy
• Lack of interest
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Decreased performance

Those struggling with mental illness can feel overwhelmed with the stigma and misinformation surrounding it. These coping mechanisms may help manage symptoms.

• Self-Care
• Exercise
• Socializing
• Spending time outdoors
• Getting adequate sleep, at least seven to eight hours

As always, your physician or a mental health professional can provide additional resources and pathways to get help for you or a loved one. This can include psychotherapy, medication or support groups.

To learn more about mental health, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or with one of the skilled, compassionate primary care physicians at Adventist Medical Group.

Each Wednesday at 7:40 am, Jerry & Blanca speak with local health professional, Rose Melendez, who offers helpful tips for your health and well-being, brought to you by our friends at Adventist HealthCare.