What is Mental Health?
Mental health is our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It impacts our thinking, moods and behaviors. It also determines how we handle stress, relate to others, and the choices we make around work, exercise, food, sleep and more. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:
- Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry
- Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse
- Family history of mental health problems
- Lifestyle conditions
Local Resources
- 211 Life Line offers Support Groups, Hotlines, Drop-In Centers, Counseling and other specialized services located in Rochester, NY
- ROCovery Fitness is a supportive community of physically active individuals brought together by sober living, committed to creating an environment of healing and recovery
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
- https://www.mcms.org/Veteran-Resources - A list of local veteran organizations specializing in behavioral health services located in Monroe County
For more information, visit these websites:
Resources to Recover | Gateway to Mental Health Services (rtor.org) – Resources to Recover is a free online service that helps people with mental health concerns connect with expert treatment and services
NAMI New York State (naminys.org) – NYS National Alliance on Mental Illness offers programs, events, support and resources for New York State residents
About OMH (ny.gov) - The Mission of the New York State Office of Mental Health is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances
- https://www.mentalhealthishealth.us
Oftentimes, it can be difficult to speak up or reach out for help when you are feeling down because of the stigma around mental health. By understanding that everyone has mental health and it is common to experience highs and lows, it makes talking about it easier. Below are some statistics about mental health that indicate the prevalence of mental health disorders:
- Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year [Source]
- 42.5 million of US adults have a diagnosed anxiety disorder [Source]
- Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in America
- 17.3 million of US adults have depression [Source]
- 56% of adults with mental illness did not receive any mental health treatment
- 20.6% of adults with mental Illness report they try and can't get treatment [Source]
Exercise
- Physical activity has been shown to have significant positive emotional and mental health outcomes
- Exercise produces certain chemicals in the brain such as dopamine and serotonin.
- Researchers at Duke University studied people suffering from depression for 4 months and found that 60% of the participants who exercised for 30 minutes three times per week overcame their depression
- Exercise can play a big part in improving body image and increasing social interaction which can improve mental health
(Remember to start slow and check with your doctor if you have any underlying conditions)
Diet
Research shows a link between what we eat and how we feel. Some foods can help us feel better, while others may make us feel down. A diet with lots of vegetables, fresh fruits and whole grains can reduce the symptoms of depression. Whereas a diet with high sugar and saturated fat can have a negative impact on the brain. Some ways you can improve your mental health through your diet are:
- Eating primarily plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts
- Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods
- Limiting red meat to no more that a few times a month
- Drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day
Sleep
Sleep and your mental health are connected. Sleep deprivation affects your mental health and those with mental health issues are more likely to experience sleep disorders. Scientists discovered that sleep disruptions negatively impact the brain by impairing thinking and emotional regulation. Here are some ways you can improve your sleep:
- Stick to the same sleep schedule (even on the weekends)
- Create a bed-time routine that relaxes you! Take a bath, meditate, read a book or journal
- Choose a supportive and comfortable mattress and pillow
- Invest in nice sheets and bedding
- Keep a note pad next to your bed so when you think of something you can simply write it down and focus on getting to sleep
Other Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
- Listen to music
- Spend time with friends and family
- Meditate
- Spend time outside in nature
- Have a spa day
- Read & write
- Play games
- Complete a fun project at home
"The strongest people are those who win battles we know nothing about." – Jonathan Harnisch.
Email: ginther@smolaconsulting.com
Website: www.smolaconsulting.com
Location: 1 South Washington Street, Rochester, NY, USA
Phone: 5857774080
