Mental Health Conditions
When it comes to mental health conditions there are so many of them, and that is why we must allow a medical professional in.
How can family and friends be there for those experiencing mental health issues? We are all going through so much these days. Learn how you can help one another through these difficult times.
Independence
As we age we gain greater independence, we meet new people and we have new and memorable experiences that are coming about in our lives.
The time you are of age to move out of your parent’s home is a time of significant transition which can be both positive and challenging at the same time. For some this stress may have an impact on their mental health, making it difficult to manage the daily demands of their lives.
Mental Health Communication
Mental health conditions are common so it may be important to be with those in common. By doing this it also brings a sense of belonging because we can relate with one another.
A support group may help you share what works for you and what does not work. If you are not ready to be in a group seek out one on one counseling.
Remember to keep lines of communication open with a trustworthy friend. Conversations allow you to plan for the unexpected; to know what to do if you develop some distress.
Adolescence
This is a time of many changes and challenges that go along with our developing bodies, and academic and social stresses that may cause some sadness or even irritability.
It’s like a double-edged sword when it comes to an adolescent’s social life. Their social life is an important source of support and normal development while its also causing a great deal of pain and distress, particularly in adolescents who are experiencing bullying.
Those who experience any kind of verbal, physical, or sexual assault or the threats of such assault are more vulnerable to mental health problems. The acts of racism and discrimination have been shown to correlate with depression in minorities. Long-term bullying is causing distress that can be a contributing factor to suicide attempts.
Depression coexist with other conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders and learning disabilities
Depression can take a toll on a young persons mind. Untreated depression can lead to devastating consequences; ongoing problems at home with friends and can get worse causing incarceration and may even include committing suicide.
Suicide is permanent to a temporary problem!
Adolescents living with depression often experience symptoms of irritability, and anger self-criticism more commonly than the feelings of sadness and loss of energy that is seen in adults.
Adult life is full of opportunities for personal growth and greater independence. These new life experiences may bring along some stressful times, like the financial demands that go along with them.
Causes and Symptoms
There are several factors to consider when it comes to depression. Does your family have a history of mental illness like depression? You may start sensing changes in your stress levels along with new sleep patterns and your eating habits may be changing. Have you become sad, suffered energy loss. Do you have feelings of hopelessness?
Stressors
Here is a list of stressors that may affect your mental health; relationship breakups, academic pressures, social life pressures, loneliness, concern, or worry when it comes to your loved ones which may include losses. alcohol or drug use, feeling overwhelmed, having unmet expectations, and getting inadequate amounts of sleep.
How To Best Manage Your Stress
How best to manage stress is to exercise, get a good amount of sleep, listen to music, meditate, practice self-care, get organized, create to-do lists in priority order, pray, eat healthy meals, avoid alcohol and drugs.
Jump Start My Mental Health
I recommend a mental health provider when it comes to seeking the right help. If this isn’t an option I would talk with a family member that you have looked up to, who has provided you support that has been beneficial.
Building connections to others and having a strong support system can help. The more you talk about mental health the easier it will be.
Mental illnesses are medical conditions that can disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and their daily functioning.
Warnings
Listen to your mind and your body and if you are not feeling right or noticing the following seek help immediately.
- Its been more than two weeks and I am feeling sad.
- Risk taking behaviors
- Feeling out of control
- Overwhelmed with fear
- Loss of appetite
- Using or abusing a substance
- Self-Harm
- Unable to concentrate
- Intense feelings of worry
- Hallucinating
Recovery Is A Journey
Avoid alcohol and drug use to cope with stress. Alcohol and drug use can worsen an underlying mental health condition. Drug use, especially marijuana may increase the likelihood of psychosis in people who are at risk of developing a serious mental illness. Psychosis is a symptom it may be transient, intermittent, short-term or part of a longer-term psychiatric condition. An episode can be rather frightening for a person who is experiencing it and their family members. Hallucinations (hearing voices) . This is treatable, support the person who is experiencing this.
Remember that recovery is possible.
If you find yourself struggling seek out help. The sooner you get help the better off you will be. Reach out for help now! You are worth it! Reaching out is a sign of strength.
We all have challenging times ahead of us so lean on a friend or a family member someone who will lift you up.
Know that when mental health conditions are undetected and untreated they can lead to taking ones life.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 25-year-olds. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts and you feel like life isn’t worth living call 911 immediately.
Coping Mechanisms
Learn some techniques that will help you cope better.
Mental Health Resources
Mental illness affects everyone and people living with mental health conditions need a community that supports them, their families and their recovery.
These include: Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and other conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Attention-Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
https://nimh.nih.gov/health/publications
https:/stopbullying-now.hrsa.gov
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