May is Mental Health Awareness Month. During all the stress and loneliness of the lockdown, almost everyone can feel more open about discussing mental health.
Whether we are dealing with a general sense of anxiety, or we live with a form of mental illness regularly, it is a real problem. Mental health problems are impacting millions of people in the US every year.
Mental illnesses affect feelings, mood, and thinking. They are disorders of the brain. Because the brain is an organ, it can become ill just like any other organ. The brain is the most complex organ in the body. Mental health is obviously important and we should be aware of the signs of mental health struggles.
Here are some of the most common mental illnesses:
- Anxiety Disorders
- ADHD
- Bipolar Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Depression
- Dissociative Disorder
- Eating Disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
- Psychosis
- Schizoaffective Disorder
- Schizophrenia Disorder
If a person is diagnosed with a mental health condition it’s good to know that there are many types of treatment that can be used to help. Many people get therapy from a psychologist. There are many varieties of medications that can make a huge difference. Some people are referred to in-patient therapy when in a crisis. Alternative therapies help some and brain stimulation is also available.
Everyone who deals with a mental illness has a unique set of issues. There is no plan that is appropriate for every case. Some people may do well with one therapy, while other’s may use a combination of therapies. Your doctor can help those who need it to find the best choice for their mental health needs.
Mental Health problems have been hidden for too long and should be addressed openly. There is no shame in having a brain illness. Any concern with anxiety, depression, or specific symptoms that worry you can and should be discussed with your doctor. Getting advice, counseling, testing, advice, or medication can be a small thing that makes a huge difference.
During the pandemic and lockdown, many people have become anxious and depressed. This might be a new problem and they might not know what to do. If you are seeing signs of mental health problems in your loved ones, please be kind and try to have a non-accusing talk with them. We all want to have good health, physical and mental.
We’re not alone. As a Christian, I am someone who prays. I pray for my anxiety and my families, too. Because quite a few of my chronic illnesses have anxiety/depression as symptoms, I’m very aware of the affect that anxiety has on my health. My rheumatologist put me on Cymbalta years ago for pain and anxiety. It does a fantastic job on my anxiety!
I would encourage anyone who is quietly suffering from a mental health issue to open up to their doctor. And, let’s also be kind to everyone who is having a hard time. No man is an island, and some of our friends and family may need a few more virtual hugs.
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical expert. This post contains my opinions and is not meant to be medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your personal physician.
@2020, copyright Lisa Ehrman