Mental health issues are a reality for many of us; in the United States, nearly one in five American adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in any given year. Unfortunately, mental health is not something that we often talk about, so many of us may not realize the signs of a mental health disorder and how to access help. In this article, we’ll explore the tangible ways to start managing your mental health and reduce associated distress.

First, take control of your treatment by talking to your doctor and seek professional help when necessary. This can involve speaking to a psychologist or psychiatrist about the symptoms of your condition and perhaps undertaking cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication. Medicare covers some psychological services and you may be eligible for a Mental Health Care Plan prescribed by your GP, so it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider how to access these services. Doing so will help you to create an individualized plan for your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

In addition, researchers suggest that engaging in certain activities and developing strategies to manage symptoms can be beneficial in managing mental health. Start by discovering what works for you. This could include physical activity such as walking or going to the gym, joining a support group or making lifestyle changes like getting enough sleep or meal planning. Social interaction is also encouraged as a way to manage mental health; it may be helpful to reach out to family and friends for support or, if you feel overwhelmed, to find a counsellor or therapist you feel comfortable talking to.

Daily stress management can also help to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. It is important to take care of yourself and remain mindful of your thoughts and emotions. This could mean set boundaries and create structure or setting aside time for self-care such as reading a book or listening to music. Furthermore, developing good coping mechanisms such as journaling, listening to music or participating in activities can help you to manage stressful situations.

Finally, it’s important to remember to ask for help when you need it. Family and friends can be invaluable sources of support and comfort, as well as members of the medical community. Talking to a professional can help provide you with more insight into your condition and how to better manage it in a sustainable way. So if you find yourself struggling with mental health issues, don’t be afraid to reach out.

Mental health issues are pervasive and believed to be more common among adults in the Western World. However, if you find yourself facing these issues, it important to remember that there are ways to effectively manage them. Taking control of your treatment by speaking to your doctor, engaging in physical activity, developing successful coping mechanisms, and asking for help when needed are all tangible ways to improve mental health. So don’t be afraid to reach out and start taking the steps to managing your mental health.