It is estimated that 20 percent of people in America are living with a mental illness. Even though mental illness is extremely common, that does not make it any easier to deal with. However, there are some things that you can do in order to cope with your mental illness.
Join a Support Group
Many people who are dealing with a mental illness feel as though they are alone. They may be unable to talk to their family members and friends because their loved ones do not understand mental illness. That is why you may find it helpful to join a support group. You can discuss the challenge that you have living with a mental illness. You can also listen to other people's stories. Furthermore, you can give and receive encouragement.
Practice Self Care
Taking care of yourself will make it a lot easier for you to cope with your mental illness. Make sure that you get plenty of rest. You should also try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise in every day. Regular exercise helps stimulate the release of endorphins. These endorphins will boost your mood.
Additionally, it is important to follow a healthy diet . Fruits, vegetables and lean protein will help keep you physically and mentally-healthy.
Go to a Recovery Facility
One of the keys to properly managing a mental illness is to get the proper treatment. Everyone is different, so the right treatment for you may not necessarily be the right treatment for someone else. You can get the help that you need at a recovery facility like the Center for Change . You can work with a psychologist or a psychiatrist that can also educate you about your mental illness.
Keep a Journal
Many people find that certain things trigger their mental illness symptoms. If you are able to pinpoint the triggers, then you may have an easier time coping with your mental illness. You may find that keeping a journal helps you pinpoint your triggers. Journaling is also a great way to express yourself.
It is not easy to live with a mental illness. It can cause you to feel as though you do not have control of your life. Fortunately, there are ways that you can cope with your condition. You will need to visit a recovery facility and join a support group. Taking care of yourself and expressing your feelings through journaling can also be helpful for you.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.