1 in 5 Australians between the ages of 16-85 will experience a mental disorder in any year. The most common mental illnesses include depression, anxiety and substance misuse. Mental health not only affects adults but it also affects our youth of today.
Being a GP, mental health covers over half of my consults in any given day and the commonest feeling? Feeling alone and isolated.
We are so fortunate that mental health is no longer ‘taboo’ and there is so much help out there from support groups to psychologists and medication. The hardest step is recognising the need to ask for help. This mental health week, I am encouraging those of you who may be affected and haven’t made a connection for help to make a brave step forward. You’re not alone and I’d love to help you on your journey back to good health.
Before the week passes us by, make the most of today. Each day is a gift, so be sure to start your day right with a good amount of sleep and a hearty breakfast. Set yourself goals that you want to achieve and allow time for exercise and relaxation. Most importantly try to stay positive, it’s so easy to fall into a spiral of negativity but as we know, this can be self-destructive and you may not achieve anything.
Mindfulness helps to improve our concentration and reduce ruminating thoughts that can lead to stress.
The key is to focus only on the present moment and not get lost in your thoughts, for example, concentrate on what’s happening around you, what can you hear or feel. You could get into a habit of doing this every day whilst you’re brushing your teeth.
Researchers have shown that practicing mindfulness helps to reduce anxiety and depression and that when you train your brain to be mindful you are actually changing the structure of your brain.
If you would like more help or information please pop by and see me in clinic.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with New Years resolutions, feeling the financial strain or are simply stressed, speaking to someone can help with thinking clearly and achieving realistic goals.
If you or a family member is affected by mental health you could be entitled to a mental health care plan under Medicare which allows you to speak with a psychologist.
If you would like more information or help with mental heath please pop by and see me in clinic.
Anxiety, depression, substance misuse and eating disorders are just some of the common mental health problems that affect many of us. In fact over half the population will experience a mental disorder at some point in their lives.
Don’t suffer alone. There’s a wealth of help out there, from psychological therapies, support groups, coaching groups, medication and so much more.
If you are concerned about yourself or a friend please seek medical help and pop by and see me in clinic.
