Oct 10, 2023 Mental Health Matters
October 10th is World Mental Health Day and Team Member Stacy has shared her story and some helpful tools to stay well:
An estimated one in five adults are diagnosed with a mental illness every year with 4.58% of Americans experiencing suicidal thoughts. Suicide is so prevalent that it is ranked in the top 10 causes of death in the age range 10-64. It is important to remember that everyone’s experience with mental health is unique.
I was diagnosed with a mental illness in the summer of 2006. I have had many ups and downs through the years and have found a treatment plan that works for me. My mental health toolbox has many aids in it. First is diet and exercise. It also contains a counselor, doctor, and medicine.
If you are struggling with mental illness or suicidal ideation, there are holistic ways of approaching your treatment. First, know what is at the root cause of what is impacting your mental wellbeing. Next, build your tribe; it can be family, friends, or even your yoga community.
Another useful tool is movement. Yoga has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Attending class in person gets you out of your house and mind. Yoga can also be used as a tool to combat depression. There have also been studies showing the benefits of yoga’s asana and pranayama practices for people with schizophrenia.
Finally, if none of this works, reach out to a professional. 988 is a number you can text or call 24 hours a day. https://988lifeline.org/ is also available for online chat and additional tools. You are worthy of being healthy mentally, physically, and spiritually.
~Stacy
