Mental Health Day

All over the globe, people celebrate World Mental Health Day on October 10th. The day was established in 1992 by the World Health Organization as a response to a growing need for awareness for mental health issues. By having a day dedicated to this cause, we can become more aware of mental health to help break the stigma surrounding mental illness. As a result, it will encourage those who are living with mental illness seek the appropriate treatment and support they need. It will also help inform and educate the loved ones of those experiencing mental illness. Private Home Care supports this cause because mental health is just as important as physical health to our wellbeing.

World Mental Health day is not just about treating illness, but also strengthening mental health! Dr. Drew Ramsey is a world renowned psychiatrist who has helped pioneer the new field of nutritional psychiatry. It is scientifically proven that our diet impacts not only our physical health, but our mental health too. The Mediterranean Diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, dairy, whole grains and less processed foods, or the ‘brain go brain grow diet’, will help improve mental health.

Building more mental health – Dr. Drew shares that eating one salad is not going to be a cure-all for mental illness. However, he says that taking small steps and incorporating a brain health diet in conjunction with whatever kind of treatment, including psychotherapy, medication, or meditation, will help bolster mental health. He cites studies where women who ate seafood rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids over a 3 month period were 25% less likely to be depressed. Some forms of mental illness may be more based on genetics (like bipolar disorder), and some more environmental (like social isolation from the pandemic), but there are ways of alleviating symptoms. Although struggling with mental illness may be difficult, it is important to remember that a healthy lifestyle will always help improve how you are feeling (even if just a little at first!), such as getting fresh air and exercise, and eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy work/life balance.

Globally, one in three people will experience a mental illness at some point during their lifetime. On World Mental Health Day, we honor this occasion by encouraging those who struggle to tell their stories or reach out to loved ones who may not seem like themselves. Another way to help is to build up your mental health by practicing self care. Remind people that they are not alone and let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health, in order to help people live their best quality lives.