Mental Health, is EVEN more important within these trying times.

Today’s topic is a bit different from our usual videos, but we found that this is important to talk about. Mental Health, is EVEN more important within these trying times. Bad mental health could lead you to have a mental illness. And we have seen more and more of this happening in our country this year. But! You must understand the difference between those 2.

What's the difference between normal mental health and mental disorders? Sometimes the answer is clear, but often the distinction isn't so obvious. For example, if you're afraid of giving a speech in public, does it mean you have a mental health disorder or a run-of-the-mill case of nerves? Or, when does shyness become a case of social phobia? Here's help understanding how mental health conditions are identified. Mental health is the overall wellness of how you think, regulate your feelings and behaviors. Sometimes people experience a significant disturbance in this mental functioning. A mental disorder may be present when patterns or changes in thinking, feeling, or behaving cause distress or disrupt a person's ability to function. Cultural norms and social expectations also play a role in defining mental health disorders. There is no standard measure across cultures to determine whether a behavior is normal or when it becomes disruptive. What might be normal in one society may be a cause for concern in another. I’m sure you all have listened to or watched people explain what is mental health or mental illness. What we are doing today is how to combat and significantly improve your mental health. Self-care strategies Self-care strategies are good for your mental and physical health and can help you take charge of your life. Take care of your body and your mind and connect with others to benefit your mental health.

Some of the ways you can improve are by getting enough sleep. That is the most important first step you need to take. Keep your regular routine. Maintaining a regular schedule is important to your mental health. In addition to sticking to a regular bedtime routine, keep consistent times for meals, bathing and getting dressed, work or study schedules, and exercise. Also set aside time for activities you enjoy. This predictability can make you feel more in control. It is also important to limit your exposure to news media and social media. Constant news about COVID-19 from all types of media can heighten fears about the disease. Limit social media that may expose you to rumors and false information. Also limit reading, hearing, or watching other news, but keep up to date on national and local recommendations.

One more major thing to do is connect with others. Family, friends, and your loved one. If you need to stay at home and distance yourself from others, avoid social isolation. Find time each day to make virtual connections by email, texts, phone, or Zoom or similar apps. If you're working remotely from home, ask your co-workers how they're doing and share coping tips. Enjoy virtual socializing and talking to those in your home. I hope that you and your family are staying safe during these trying times. I hope you have enough food to eat and have all the daily life necessities.

If you don’t, please don’t be afraid to ask. That’s it from us. Have a GOOD rest everybody.