Mental health affects every aspect of a person’s life. Because of this, it’s important to care for your mental wellbeing. Many of us have been adjusting to quarantining and what our new normal could be like during COVID-19.
It’s timely that life with the pandemic coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month, which aims to educate the public on mental illness and conditions. During these times of uncertainty, it may be helpful to recognize signs of stress and anxiety and learn ways to cope better.
Awareness for mental illnesses and the effects
Mental Health Awareness Month is a nationally recognized initiative dating back to 1949. This month’s goal is to raise awareness about illnesses and conditions and change the stigma associated with them. This month also serves as a reminder to care for mental wellbeing because it correlates with overall health. Mental illnesses can affect men and women and boys and girls of all ages, races, and socioeconomic classes. In fact, one in five adults experiences mental illness each year.
Some mental illnesses include major depression, severe anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Big life changes and significant events can trigger these illnesses, which can manifest as physical illnesses or unhealthy behaviors such as aches or turning to substances to cope.
Quarantining, social distancing and mental health
We’re living in unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven the majority of the world into quarantine. The stress of the economic uncertainty, fear of the sickness spreading, and isolation it brings can wreak havoc on anyone’s psyche. Experiencing weeks in self-quarantine can be lonely for many as we adjust to periods without friends, family, loved ones, and others in physical proximity. It’s easy to neglect our mental and emotional wellbeing in situations like this.
It’s perfectly normal to have mixed emotions as we transition to life post-quarantine. It’s completely understandable to worry about your health and that of your loved ones. Concern for work and the job market in this current economy is expected. These instances can induce stress, but there are ways to cope with and prioritize your mental health.
Ways to take care of your mental wellbeing
There are measures we can take to maintain our mental health. When we build healthy habits, we’re healthily coping with our anxious feelings. The following habits can help you take care of your mental health:
Take deep breaths and practice meditation.
Remember to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Exercise regularly.
Get the proper amount of sleep for yourself.
Get fresh air and sunshine.
Do activities that help you relax.
Stay virtually connected with others.
Avoid alcohol and drug use.
Urgent mental health support services we offer
We give our patients proper care in an urgent, timely manner. We also have access to psychiatry and counseling services if needed. We will use our best judgment and our specialty referral system to ensure our patients receive exceptional medical care for their mental health needs.
Anger Management
Divorce/Relationship
Domestic Violence
Grief Counseling
Independent Living Skills
Life Coaching / Mentoring
Stress Management
Substance Abuse
Learn about mental health services available at Crimson Care in Tuscaloosa, AL.
Dr. Ramesh Peramsetty -- along with his entire Crimson Care team -- is committed to making medical services convenient and accessible. The clinic offers three Tuscaloosa locations: Crimson Care Skyland, Veterans Memorial, and First Care on McFarland. All sites offer extended weekday hours and one-stop treatment services, including medical care, x-rays, lab work, and prescription dispensing.
Crimson Care also provides digital access through its online patient portal. Request prescription refills, complete any necessary patient forms online, review your medical records at any time, and even pay your bill.
Check us out today on our website, or give us a call today at Crimson Care Veterans: (205) 507-1100, Crimson Care Skyland: (205) 507-1119, or First Care: (205) 349-2323.