Body & Mind: Taking care of you.
Life is hard and COVID-19 has made it more difficult to navigate even the most basic tasks of day-to-day living. Leading a healthy life looks different for most, but your plan should always include a focus on three main areas: clean diet, moderate exercise, and mental health treatment.
What are common risk factors that may increase your chance of developing mental illness?
- A history of mental illness
- Stressful life situation (like financial problems)
- An on-going medical condition (like diabetes)
- Brain damage
- Traumatic experiences
- Use of alcohol or recreational drugs
- A childhood history of abuse or neglect
- Few friends or few healthy relationships
What are some causes of mental health disorders?
In general, mental illnesses are thought to be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors.
- Inherited traits. Mental illness is more common in people who have a family history of it.
- Environmental exposures before birth. Environmental stressors, toxins, alcohol/drugs, or inflammatory conditions while in the womb are linked to causing it later in life.
- Brain chemistry. Impaired neurotransmitters can lead to nerve system damage causing depression (and other emotional disorders).
Can mental disorders lead to complications in one’s life?
The short answer: yes. Mental illness is the leading cause of disability and if left untreated can cause severe emotional, behavioral, and physical issues including:
- Unhappiness and decreased enjoyment of life
- Family conflicts
- Relationship difficulties
- Social isolation
- Problems with tobacco, alcohol & other drugs
- Missed work or school
- Legal and financial problems
- Poverty and homelessness
- Self-harm or harm to others
- Weakened immune system
- Heart disease
How can I help prevent or treat my mental health disorder?
First, you need to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or speak with a mental health professional if warning signs exist. Getting properly diagnosed and determining a treatment plan that works best for you and your loved ones can get you back on the road to recovery quickly.
Noticing some symptoms? If you notice changes in you or your loved one’s behavior, schedule an appointment with your trusted healthcare provider. A mental health professional will work with you to develop a plan that works best for you and your family. Treatment plans may include therapy and/or medication depending on doctor recommendation.
Elmer Hugh Taylor Clinic of Culbertson Memorial Hospital offers counseling services for individuals, families, and children to provide guidance and support. Schedule your appointment with Cathy Rigg, LSCW to begin your journey to peace and well-being.