Mental Health Matters
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By Sheldon Riklon, M.D.
Mental health is an important part of our overall health and well-being. Just as we take care of our physical health by eating nutritious foods, staying active, and getting regular checkups, it is important to take care of our mental and emotional health.
Our mental health can affect how we handle stress, make decisions, build relationships, and respond to challenges. Many things can affect our mental health, including work, school, relationships, financial concerns, caregiving responsibilities, illness, grief, and major life changes. When several challenges happen at the same time, it can make it even harder to cope.
It is important to remember that struggling with your mental health does not mean you have failed; it simply means you may need support.
Signs that you may need support
Everyone experiences difficult days, but ongoing changes in your thoughts, feelings, or behavior may be a sign that you could benefit from additional support.
Some signs that you may be struggling with your mental health include:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, worried, or overwhelmed for an extended period
- Losing interest in activities you normally enjoy
- Having trouble sleeping or sleeping much more than usual
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling unusually angry, irritable, or restless
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
- Having difficulty keeping up with responsibilities at home, work, or school
- Using alcohol or other substances to cope with difficult emotions
- Feeling like you cannot manage everyday life
You do not have to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for help.
Sometimes people avoid seeking help because of stigma or because they worry about what others will think. Others may feel like they should be able to handle everything on their own, but asking for help is a healthy and responsible choice.
Mental health care can look different for everyone. It may include talking with a healthcare provider, working with a mental health professional, joining a support group, connecting with community resources, or making changes to support your overall well-being.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Psychiatric Research Institute has compiled a list of state and national organizations that provide mental and emotional health resources.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is an immediate danger or medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Taking care of your mental health
While talking to a healthcare provider or mental health professional can be an important part of caring for your mental and emotional health, there are also everyday steps you can take to support your health and well-being.
Stay connected. Spend time with people you trust and talk about how you are feeling. Connecting with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and remind you that you do not have to face challenges alone.
Take care of your body. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, and keeping up with regular checkups can support both physical and mental health.
Make time for things you enjoy. Hobbies, time outdoors, music, creative activities, spiritual practices, or simply taking time to relax can help you recharge.
Manage stress. Try activities that help you relax, such as taking a walk, practicing deep breathing, spending time outside, or breaking large tasks into smaller steps.
Set realistic expectations. You do not have to do everything at once. Give yourself permission to take breaks and recognize what you can accomplish.
Ask for help. Talking with a doctor, counselor, therapist, community health worker, faith leader, or another trusted person can be an important first step.
Whether you are having a difficult day or facing a more serious challenge, taking the necessary steps and reaching out for support can be an important step toward feeling better. You don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone.
For more information about mental health, visit cdc.gov.
Sheldon Riklon, M.D., is a professor in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Department of Family and Preventive Medicine and a co-investigator with the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation.