According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 450 million people worldwide living with a mental health disorder. So if you are one of them, you are far from alone! Our team at AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah wants you to know how you can recognize the symptoms of a mental health issue, as well as how you protect your mental health in the first place.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Mental Illness?
This answer isn’t one-sizes-fits-all. What’s normal for one person won’t be normal for another. It’s important to keep a careful eye on your mood and thoughts—and talk with your doctor when something seems to be out of sync. If you are experiencing some type of mental health issue, help is available. Depending on the type of issue you’re facing, there are many different treatment options.
Treatment for Mental Health
- Medication
- Psychotherapy
- Group therapy
- Day treatment or partial hospital treatment
- Specific therapies, such as cognitive-behavior therapy and behavior modification
How Can I Protect My Mental Health?
You can protect your mental health—and prevent health issues—in much the same way that you protect your physical health. Healthy lifestyle habits will help promote positive mental health along with positive physical health. Practice a healthy lifestyle by exercising for at least 30 minutes on most days, getting plenty of quality sleep, limiting your alcohol consumption, not smoking and practicing stress management techniques. What you eat can also help protect your mental health, so fill your plate with foods known to be good for mental health.
Foods That Benefit Mental Health
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Fruits
- Veggies
- Fatty fish, like salmon or albacore tuna
- Healthy fats, such as raw nuts and olive oil
Not feeling like yourself? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah today! No appointment is needed.
