Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Our world today is becoming more and more aware of the importance of taking care of ourselves and our mental health. It affects how we think, feel and act -but it doesn’t just affect us, it can affect the people around us as well. Its important for all ages.
“As we seek treatment when experiencing physical health concerns, the same focus and acknowledgement is often needed for mental health conditions. Historically, mental health treatment was not always promoted, and due to stigma, some were afraid to discuss their thoughts or feelings. Luckily, many people have now become more comfortable discussing their mental health treatment, and are seeking assistance at higher rates.
Some individuals may still feel worried about what friends, coworkers, or loved ones might think if they report experiencing mental health symptoms. Our team helps support patients in finding their ways to cope. Our goal is to reduce stigma, and likewise help those we treat find happiness and fulfillment.” Dr. Chad Breznay
Myths and Facts about Mental Health
- Myth: Mental health problems won’t affect me.
- Fact: Mental health problems are actually very common.
- 1 in 5 American adults reported experiencing a mental health issue
- 1 in 6 young people experience a major depressive episode
- 1 in 20 Americans lived with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression
- Myth: Children don’t experience mental health problems.
- Fact: Even very young children can experience mental illness
- Half of all mental health disorders show first signs before a person turns 14
- 75% of mental health disorders begin before age 24
- Myth: People with mental health problems are violent and unpredictable.
- Fact: The majority of people with mental health problems are no more likely to be violent than anyone else.
- Only 3%-5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals living with a serious mental illness
- People with severe mental illness are over 10 times more likely to be the victim of a violent crime
- Myth: People with mental health needs cannot tolerate the stress of holding down a job.
- Fact: People with mental health problems are just as productive as other employees. Employers who hire people with mental health problems report good attendance and punctuality as well as motivation, good work, and job tenure on par with or greater than other employees.
- Myth: Personality weakness or character flaws cause mental health problems. People with mental health problems can snap out of it if they try hard enough.
- Fact: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being lazy or weak and many people need help to cope better.
What early warning signs should I be aware of?
If you aren’t sure if you or someone you know if living with mental health problems, observing any of these early warning signs may indicate a problem:
- Feeling numb or like nothing matters
- Having unexplained aches and pains
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
- Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
- Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
- Thinking of harming yourself or others
What could be affecting my mental health?
Many factors can contribute to your mental health deteriorating. These can include biological factors such as a family history of mental problems, life experiences, work, relationships, etc.
What are the symptoms that can show signs of poor mental health?
- Feeling sad, down or depressed
- Having little or no energy, feeling tired constantly
- Feeling helpless or hopeless
- Feeling uninterested in usual activities, friends or family
- Feeling on edge, confused, angry, worried
- Arguing with family or friends
- Hearing voices or having unusual thoughts or feelings
- Unable to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school
- Sleeping a lot or not getting enough sleep, not being able to fall asleep
How can I improve my mental health?
- Make sure your basic needs are being met. Have you eaten today? Did you shower, brush your teeth? Did you get a good night’s sleep?
- Make sure you are getting the right amount of rest. Doctors recommend at least 8 hours of sleep every night to be fully rested for the next day.
- Don’t skip breakfast! Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and serves to give you the energy needed to start your day.
- Remove stressors from your life if possible.
- Drink enough water. Did you have your caffeine fix this morning? Make sure to follow that with an ample amount of water as caffeine can actually serve as a stressor and increase anxiety levels.
How can I get help?
Contact us today to schedule an appointment: 321-241-6800
Brevard Health Alliance provides integrated mental and behavioral health care services to patients throughout Brevard County, FL and the surrounding areas, including Cocoa, Malabar, Palm Bay, Titusville, Melbourne, and Rockledge. Our behavioral health team boasts psychologists, psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, and various other licensed mental health providers. Our expert team provides services for children, adolescents, adults, and families through individual and group therapy.
Click here to find the right mental health resources in your area.
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