5 Things You Didn’t Know About Mental Health

Did you know that addiction is a mental health issue? It is a mental illness.

Addiction actually changes the brain, therefore disturbing the hierarchy of desires and needs. It actually changes the fundamental way a person’s brain functions. The results of this are impulsive behaviors and aggressive actions.

Some people are more susceptible to addiction as they might have a predisposition for it, but we are all potential victims. In order to ensure we don’t fall into the trap of addiction and just to maintain our overall well-being, it is important that we maintain our mental health.

Mental health seems to be one of those topics most people don’t like to talk about – it is a hush hush subject. Typically, people like to keep their depression and anxiety in a closet and leave it unattended until it bothers them.

 

However, proper care for mental health requires addressing issues up front and finding ways to avoid triggers.

A few interesting things you might not know about mental health – but should know – are:

  1. It has a direct and measurable impact on your physical health and overall well-being.Depression, anxiety, stress, and addiction can take a toll on your body, mentally and physically. It can leave you feeling tired, lethargic, sick and frail.
  2. Most often, your mental health is based on trial and error.You have to figure out what your triggers are and what works best for you. It is all about learning your body and your mental state.
  3. You might be your own best treatment provider.Sometimes all you need is you. However, you should first explore other options to ensure this is the best fit. But, keeping a food, emotion and exercise journal can really be an eye-opener. It is a great way to learn your triggers and to track and reward yourself for good days.
  4. Today, we understand the mind just about as well as a doctor understood a heart about 200 years ago.While we are quite advanced in medicine, mental health is a totally different story. Physicians and researchers are still learning all the ins and outs of mental health and how to improve care for patients. Not all symptoms, triggers and treatment side effects are known.
  5. It is okay to shop around for treatment.Just because someone is the first doctor or treatment facility you went to does not make them the right fit for you. Always keep your options open and explore what is available. It will be most effective when it is the right fit.