We tend to think that anything that starts with the word “mental” means “crazy”. We hope to dispel some of the myths and fears. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it’s a great time to take inventory of where you are emotionally in life. Suppressed issues or other stressors may have caused you to become a little bit off balance. Before you tune me out let me explain.
Mental health issues can be as simple as the following:
•Depression
•Overeating/Undereating
•Panic or anxiety attacks
•Insomnia
•Situational Phobias
If you have not experienced one of the above as of yet, I can pretty much guarantee that you will at some stage in your life (sorry – I didn’t preface that statement with a spoiler alert). That may not be a bad thing, but if left unchecked, can lead to more intense problems over time. Mental Health diagnosis may include:
•Alcohol/Substance Abuse
•Anxiety Disorders
•Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
•Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
•Postpartum Depression
•Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
•Seasonal Affective Disorder
•Social Anxiety Phobia
•Anorexia and Bulimia
•Sex Addiction
•Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder
•Nightmare Disorder
•Narcolepsy
•Restless Legs Syndrome
•Attachment Disorder/Separation Anxiety Disorder
•Stuttering
•Antisocial Personality Disorder
•Avoidant Personality Disorder
•Dependent Personality Disorder
•Paranoid Personality Disorder
•Acute Stress Disorder
•Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
•Hoarding Disorder
•Hypochondriasis (Illness Anxiety)
•Intermittent Explosive Disorder
•Pain Disorder
•Gambling
•Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Although you might see yourself in one or more of these diagnoses, don’t ignore the signs. STOP and give yourself the gift of self-care. Remember, “You can’t pour from an empty glass.” One of the best ways you can contribute to improved mental health is to make sure you are taking care of yourself and meeting your own needs. This will lead to better relationships and healthier communities.
Here are some ways to practice self-care:
•Be Still…..God is waiting for you
•Take time to Breath……Everything is not a 911 situation
•Rest…… body, soul and mind
•Remember….. You don’t have nail prints in your hands or spear scar in your side because you’re not the savior.
We wish you good mental health!