The Greatness Within - Edition 13

Original Blog - Support in Mental Health - "HOW?"

Written by: Mike Gliem a.k.a. Recovery Mike

"EVERYTHING starts in our minds. Without positive MENTAL health, how healthy are we!?"

Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being, and it is important to prioritize it just as much as physical health. However, it can be challenging to navigate the complexities of mental health, which is why support is so important in this area.

Here are some options, avenues, and suggestions to consider when thinking about addressing your mental health.

• One of the most common forms of mental health support is therapy. Choosing the right therapist is essential to ensure that you receive the best care possible. When looking for a therapist, it is important to consider their credentials, experience, and approach to therapy. Additionally, it is important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you personally, as the therapeutic relationship is a key component of successful treatment.

• Mental health support groups can also be a valuable resource for those struggling with mental health issues. When looking for a support group, it is important to find one that is moderated by a trained professional and focuses on your specific needs. Being part of a support group can provide a sense of community, accountability, and validation, as well as the opportunity to learn from others who are going through similar experiences. It's extremely beneficial to be a part of like-minded people, with similar situations, or having been through personal life experiences similar to yours.

• In recent years, mental health support apps have become increasingly popular. These apps can provide a convenient and accessible way to access mental health resources, including therapy, meditation, and self-care tips. However, it is important to choose a reputable app that is evidence-based and backed by mental health professionals. There are hundreds of options in many different approaches right at your fingertips disposal. Check your AppStore or Google Play. One of my personal favorites I personally use is: "Insight Timer" for my meditations, frequencies, and soundscapes, as I find these to be very helpful as just one part of the therapies I use in my regimen. This app truly has thousands of options for almost anything you're looking for on a more meditative level, from beginners (or no experience at all) to someone highly experienced in meditation. The best part, it's FREE!

• Community support is also essential in mental health recovery. This can include participating in community activities, volunteering, connecting with others who share similar interests, and seeking out peer support. Peer support, in particular, can be a valuable resource for those experiencing mental health issues, as it provides the opportunity to connect with others who have firsthand experience with similar challenges, and have made it through to the other side and understand what it takes to do so, and offer real-time positive suggestions.

• Finally, family and friends can play a crucial role in mental health support. Having a strong support network can provide emotional validation, and practical assistance when needed. It is important to communicate openly with loved ones about your mental health needs and to seek their support when necessary. Especially if this is close family, roommates, etc. that we may live with. Our "home environment" plays a very large role in treating mental health and sustaining a healthy mindset. With that being said, sometimes, some of us don't have a choice of who we're living with. In that case and your home environment may not be conducive to your mental health goals, please explore options at your disposal. Whether that be changing locations, homes, or the individuals you're surrounded by on a daily basis. I understand if maybe finances are a barrier or transportation or employment. In this case, it is extremely important to seek the other outside assistance I spoke about and learn more about setting healthy boundaries in your current inconducive home environment. If you can't find a "balance" at home as best you can, it will be that much more difficult to achieve your mental health management plan goals. The saying "It starts at home" is a very true statement in many ways. Please keep in mind, if this is you, or your current situation, I really need you to know that you are NOT alone. I've been there myself as well, as have millions of others. We need to prioritize this issue to better fully engage in other areas of treating our mental. It is possible.

In conclusion, support is a crucial component of mental health recovery. Whether through therapy, support groups, apps, community connections, peer support, or loved ones, having a strong support network can make all the difference in managing mental health challenges and achieving overall well-being.

"If we can change our mindset, we can literally change our lives. It's not an easy process, but if we make it a priority on a daily basis, things will start to change for the better. Starve your distractions and feed your mental focus. The one you feed is the one who will succeed, but the choice is 100% yours!"

• If you, a loved one, or anyone you know are struggling in this area and could use help, connections, or services, PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me directly at - [email protected] - I'm here to help.

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