When people talk about keeping yourself healthy or going to the doctor when you are sick, do you automatically assume they are talking about your physical body? Most would agree that the physical body is what is being implied, but what about the health of your mental state? Until recent years it was seen as immature to talk about one’s mental health, but what is a person without a clear headspace? Just a body.
To keep your physical body healthy, you must first ensure that your mental health is in good shape, too. It is okay not to feel okay, and everyone has their own personal issues they need to confront and work through. Emotional maturity is a pivotal aspect of mental health and will grow to prosper what you need most in life. Understanding that you are exactly where you need to be, experiencing exactly what you need to experience for your path through life is a way of being mindful and aware.
What Do Mental Health Issues Look Like?
Mental health issues can look a lot different for every single person. Mental health issues can look like prolonged anxiety that negatively affects your responsibilities like school or work. They can also look like someone withdrawing from life’s necessities like food and sleep, socializing, or tending to personal hygiene routines. Mental health is complex and consists of various subgroups that require distinctive attention – it is not something to be pushed aside or made to seem unimportant.
Understanding the Diverse Array of Mental Health Issues
There are various types of mental health disorders. Some common types of mental health disorders include:
- Mood disorders: depression, bipolar disorder
- Anxiety disorders: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa
- Personality disorders: borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, schizotypal personality disorder
Many mental health issues can cross over and intertwine with one another, creating an even more complicated mix within someone’s brain. Substance abuse can also go hand in hand with mental health disorders, worsening the already existing issues. This is why prioritizing your mental health is crucial, especially if you are struggling with addiction and substance abuse. At 449 Recovery, we treat a wide variety of these mental health issues, and we can help you get back to where you need to be.
How to Keep Your Mental Health in Check
Keeping your mental health in check can feel challenging at times. However, making small changes and taking small steps towards overall wellness can help you succeed.
Appreciate the Small Things in Life
The small things in life can help you stay on track and feel better about yourself. You need to listen to your body, and it is okay to rest without any other reason except that you want to. Be gentle with yourself – life is not an easy journey, but you can always make the best of it. Celebrate getting out of bed, brushing your teeth, taking time for yourself, and nourishing your body.
Look at Your Surrounding Environment
Many people may not realize that the surrounding environment can significantly affect your mental health. Try cleaning your room, tidying up your kitchen space, or taking a relaxing shower. These are all things that can positively make an impact on your mood. If possible, go outside for some sunlight, drink enough water, and feed your body what it needs.
Taking Care of Yourself
All of these activities can be categorized as self-care, and it is essential to take them seriously. Just like mental health issues, self-care activities are unique to each individual. Someone who enjoys knitting may use the activity to cope with their stress, while someone else might enjoy painting with watercolors. The beauty of taking care of your own mental health issues is that there are many healthy outlets you can explore.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
The end goal for everyone should be maintaining their own mental health in a positive manner. However, it can be challenging to try and overcome mental health issues on your own. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone.
At 449 Recovery, we offer resources to help you live a happy and healthy life as well as inpatient and outpatient treatment for those struggling with their mental health. You have options, and you have help out there waiting for you. Who you are is valid. Your health needs – whether they be physical or mental – need to be addressed and taken seriously. There is no need to suffer in silence any longer, you matter, and you are worth living a wonderful life.
While mental health issues may still seem taboo in society, we are growing to understand that they are essential. You should never feel ashamed for struggling with mental health; mental health issues are entirely normal and should be treated like a physical illness in the body. Tap into self-care and put yourself first. Being informed of your options can provide you with ample choices in dealing with your mental health. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, do not hesitate to seek help. At 449 Recovery, our goal is to integrate our clients back into the community at an improved level of functioning, using objective, evidence-based treatments. Located in Mission Viejo, CA, we foster change through our whole person-centered approach to help you through the healing process. For more information on our services, call 449 Recovery today at (949) 435-7449.
