Mental Wellness Month

 

(Image Description: A caption reads "Mental Wellness Month" beside a person holding a green ribbon, the color that represents mental wellness).

Mental Wellness Month

Each January, individuals from around the world celebrate Mental Wellness Month. The purpose of this month is to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote beneficial strategies to support mental wellbeing for people of all backgrounds. With today's bustling society, mental health has become a larger issue that many may grapple with over the course of their lives. In this blog, we will discuss more about Mental Wellness Month and provide some mental health tips.

Background

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. suffer from mental health issues each year. Additionally, NAMI found that 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder annually. Mental health issues can come in several different forms, ranging from a professionally diagnosed condition to seasonal depression to grief after a significant loss. Whatever mental health concern it may be, it's important to take time out of your schedule to prioritize mental health needs, whether it's exercising on a daily basis or practicing meditation. By doing so, you can discover effective mechanisms that can help combat mental health concerns one step at a time.

In addition to personal treatment, ending social stigmas has been another important component to Mental Wellness Month. In many societies, having mental health issues may be perceived as weak or shameful. However, this is far from the case. Addressing one's mental health needs directly by having conversations and seeking out help is one of the most powerful ways to move forward. Instead of reinforcing these unjustified perceptions, we should all play our part in fully understanding mental health and the importance of support networks.

How to Improve Mental Wellness

Below are some strategies to promote individual mental well-being. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all successful strategies. If you or a loved one are experiencing severe mental health issues, please call or text 988 or visit your local mental health support numbers.

1. Get quality sleep. Many people underestimate the power of getting a full night of sleep, especially when facing busy schedules or routines. By getting consistently high levels of sleep, you can think more clearly, focus better, have improved physical health, and more.

2. Make self-care a part of your daily routine. Too often, we are busy with managing commitments or taking care of others that we don't have time to take care of ourselves. Whether it is watching your favorite TV show for relaxation or spending time with loved ones, making time for individual care is critical to maintaining optimal mental health.

3. Strengthen social relationships. Many researchers have found that having strong social connections can expand our life fulfillment and protect our physical and mental health. To improve your mental wellbeing, aim to build positive bonds with others, whether it's talking on the phone with extended family or making a new friend in your workplace or class.

4. Practice mindfulness. This practice involves being fully aware of your past and present by undergoing reflection and awareness. By taking these steps, you can think more deeply and considerately about personal and societal issues and determine ways to adapt your mindset.

5. Consider opting for therapy or another professional treatment. Engaging in these resources is an incredibly useful and common practice for many youth and adults. In fact, it is reported that 30% of adults saw a therapist during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond personal strategies, professional treatment can provide goal-based ways to target mental health needs.

6. Visit YLC resources on mental health. The YLC has its own initiative called "Mental Health & Awareness," which aims to provide mental health resources within Best Buddies International. Check out the resources below!

Mental Health & IDD Panel: https://youtu.be/xyl0K3Shhs4

"Three Novels That Got Mental Health Right" Blog: https://bestbuddiesylcblogs.blogspot.com/2022/09/three-novels-that-got-mental-health.html

YLC Linktree Page: https://linktr.ee/bestbuddiesylc

Thanks for reading!

In friendship,

Nathan Moldavsky

YLC Member, Wisconsin