According the Center for Disease Control and Prevention more than 50% of Americans will be diagnosed with some form of mental illness at some point in their lifetime. This includes mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders that result in serious functional impairment. At the root of many of these diagnosis is depression which can lead to many types of physical health problems as well, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Living with a chronic condition is a two edged sword for some patients, and has been shown to increase the risk for mental illness.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the prevalence of mental illness is highest among young adults aged 18-25 years (33.7%). The prevalence of mental illness is also highest among adults reporting two or more races (34.9%).
If mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States, that begs the question; what can we do to prevent the pitfalls leading to mental health issues?
Simple steps to support good mental health
Some things that people can do to support their mental health and prevent mental illness include, eat nutritious meals, avoid smoking and vaping, get some exercise and plenty of sleep, spend quality of time with people who matter to you, and take the time you need to practice self-care (go on walks, take a long bath, read a book, enjoy some alone time, etc.). One of the best ways of avoiding the pitfalls associated with the current trend toward mental health issues is caring for others.
How Caring for Others Supports Mental Health
Caring for others is a fundamental part of the human experience. It is something that we all do, whether it is volunteering our time to a cause we care about, lending a listening ear to a friend in need, or simply being there for a loved one during a difficult time.
But did you know that caring for others can actually be good for your mental health? In fact, studies have shown that people who are actively involved in their communities and who volunteer their time are less likely to experience depression and anxiety.
Caring for others is a great way to improve your mental health and make a difference in the world.
There are a number of reasons why caring for others can be beneficial for mental health. First, it can help to reduce stress. When we focus on helping others, it takes our minds off of our own problems and worries. This can be a great way to de-stress and relax.
Second, caring for others can help to improve our mood. When we do something nice for someone else, it releases feel-good hormones in our brain, such as oxytocin and dopamine. These hormones make us feel happy and satisfied.
Third, caring for others can help to boost our self-esteem. When we help others, it makes us feel good about ourselves and our abilities. This can help to improve our self-confidence and sense of worth.
Fourth, caring for others can help to strengthen our social connections. When we get involved in our communities and volunteer our time, we have the opportunity to meet new people and build relationships. These relationships can provide us with support and companionship, which can be essential for good mental health.
Fifth, caring for others can give us a sense of purpose. When we help others, it can give us a sense of meaning and direction in our lives. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and it can make us feel more fulfilled.
If you are looking for ways to improve your mental health, consider getting involved in your community and volunteering your time. It is a great way to reduce stress, improve your mood, boost your self-esteem, strengthen your social connections, and give your life a sense of purpose.
Here are some tips for getting started:
- Find a cause that you are passionate about.
- Look for volunteer opportunities that match your interests and skills.
- Set realistic goals for yourself.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Make it fun!
Dr. Jenny Holland is available for In-Person, Teletherapy and Online Video Counseling Services — If you are having trouble with accepting or adjusting to life’s challenges, Dr. Holland can help you find healthy ways of coping. Dr. Holland will tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. Fill out the online appointment form or call 707-479-2946.