By Schuyler Corrigan

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May 31, 2023

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Tending to our mental health is just as important as tending to our physical health, and seeking help and support when needed is crucial to taking care of ourselves. Mental health can fluctuate throughout our lives, and – much like physical ailments – is impacted by our work, families, living situations, diet, community, and stress. When we talk about “mental health awareness”, this helps to reduce the unnecessary and outdated stigma around mental health conditions that millions of people carry with them (often silently and untreated) throughout many years. For most people, at least once in their lifetime, they need mental health support, and fortunately, the accessibility and number of options are growing daily.

 

In the US alone, it is estimated that one in five adults (over 57 million people) live with a mental illness. This can range in severity from subtle behavioral and emotional disorders to something more debilitating or even fatal. Many things contribute to the onset and severity of mental health conditions including lifestyle and genetics, and the presentation of mental health struggles can vary widely. Just because someone “looks fine” does not make mental health issues any less present.

 

Read More: Daily Practices to Support Mental Health

 

Support for mental health can vary widely, including simple daily exercise, counseling, supplements,  medications and outpatient or inpatient treatment centers. Each person has their own needs, and their doctors or therapists can help them find the best solution. On an ongoing, daily basis, here are some general suggestions for supporting mental health that you can do at home:

• Light therapy (especially helpful in the winter months)

• Supplementation with vitamin D (once you have assessed your current vitamin D levels)

• Stress management practices such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and mindfulness

• Pet therapy

• Spending time outside and experiencing nature connection each day

• Maintain a healthy diet. Generally, the Mediterranean diet is an excellent one to follow for gut health and mental health support.

• Daily exercise such as walking, swimming, running, yoga, and stretching

An important first step is starting the conversation. This can be with your doctor, a loved one, or a close friend. If you find yourself struggling with mood or behavior challenges or feeling like your mental health could use some extra tending, consider making an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors. They will have an in-depth discussion with you to review your health history, diet, lifestyle practices, stressors, sleep, and any relevant lab work to help support you in your individual needs. They may also be a great resource for referrals to local therapists or licensed mental health counselors. Don’t hesitate to seek help or ask questions if you feel that you need support maintaining your mental health at any time. The staff and practitioners at Richmond Natural Medicine are available to help and guide you to find a solution that works for you.