Mental Health Awareness Month

Did you know that Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase the awareness of mental health and wellness in America? Everyday people are finding ways to identify a better strategy to navigate self-care routines that allow them to take back control of their time and their mind and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. Culturally, it’s becoming a topic of regular discussion to explore the social and intimate behaviors of people. In the month of May, take the opportunity to discover more about your personal needs. Identify ways of becoming more balanced. Become aware of your thought process and the ideas (good, bad, or indifferent) that use up most of your imagination. Start by observing your daily routine. But, don’t forget diet is everything.

There are a lot of resources that talk about the gut-brain connection. Maintaining a well balanced diet should be viewed as a top priority for everyone. Even with a tight budget there are healthy alternatives, so be open to cooking more at home and when needed substituting more expensive purchases like meat and poultry for fish, fruits and vegetables. Also, consider buying foods that can be used in multiple recipes and create new ways to repurpose any leftovers from breakfast, lunch and dinner meals to avoid food waste. Food for thought, learning how to make your own bread could also be a great benefit.

When necessary do not hesitate to contact a health professional to evaluate your individual needs as it relates to health (like check-ups and screenings) nutrition (what your putting in your body) and sleep (to make sure your allowing yourself enough time to ‘rest and recover’). Also, stick to a plan that is healthy and balanced. Make your emotional health and your physical health a priority by finding supportive groups and educational resources just in case you need to consult with someone other than family and friends. Be sure to also share and discuss mental health awareness month with those close to you.