Mental Wellness Month

January is Mental Wellness Month. Read more to learn about the importance of this health observance and review the tips for simple ways to help strengthen your mental wellbeing.

January is Mental Wellness Month, a designated time to prioritize your mental health and break the stigma associated with mental illness. Your mental health is affected by many things, such as work, school, relationships, financial problems, and excessive stress. Physical factors like illness can also make you susceptible to mental wellness issues.

Having a mental illness is much more common than you may think. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five American adults experience mental illness. That’s nearly 53 million adults. Many of these people have co-existing medical conditions, which contribute to poor mental health. Although there are millions of Americans diagnosed with mental illness, only a small portion receive proper treatment. When a mental health disorder goes untreated, symptoms can worsen and interfere with all aspects of your wellbeing.

The key to good mental wellness is being proactive and taking care of your mental health before serious issues arise. By focusing on improving your mental wellness and building resiliency, you can more easily overcome the everyday challenges of work and life. And after all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, January is the perfect time to refocus on the importance of your emotional health.

Here are some simple tips to consider as you embark on your mental wellness journey this year.

• Ask for help when you need it. It’s a sign of strength to reach out to helpful resources and ask for support when your mental wellness is suffering.
• Put yourself first. It’s important to take time every day to focus on yourself and your mental health. Engage in something that is meaningful or brings you joy.
• Follow the after-work “R” checklist.
  • Review – Acknowledge a challenge you faced, take a deep breath and let it go.
  • Reflect – However small, consider and appreciate the positives about your day.
  • Regroup – Offer support to your colleagues and ask for help when you need it.
  • Re-energize – Turn your attention to home and focus on relaxing and resting.
• Give yourself grace and acceptance. Don't beat yourself up when you make a mistake. Use the new year as an opportunity to practice self-acceptance and positive self-esteem.

If you are experiencing mental health-related or emotional distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support, please seek help. You can reference the resources below.

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 9-8-8 (available 24 hours a day, seven days a week)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Tazewell AA Meetings: https://sober.com/aa-meetings/virginia/tazewell/