Stress Management is today’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Month
May 3, 2022
Stress Management is today’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Month
MOBILE, Ala. — Every year, the Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) joins the national movement to honor May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This time is a perfect opportunity to raise awareness about mental health, fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are talking about mental health. In fact, data collected by MCHD’s Health Equity Office (HEO) indicates that the most important health issue in Mobile County is mental health. Despite this increased awareness, mental health conditions, resources, and conversations can still feel complicated and out of reach.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on our lives. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful and overwhelming. Further, communities that have been historically and presently oppressed face a deeper mental health burden because of the added impact of trauma, oppression, and harm. Learning to cope with this stress in a healthy way will help you, the people you care about, and those around to you become more resilient. Consider the following techniques:
• Keep a journal
• Download an app with relaxation exercises
• Exercise and eat healthy
• Get regular sleep
• Avoid excess caffeine
• Identify and challenge your negative thoughts
• Reach out to family and friends
It is important to know that, while these tips can be helpful, they are not your only resort. If your symptoms of stress and anxiety are interfering with your everyday life, it may be time to talk to a professional. You are not alone—help is out there, and recovery is possible. It may be hard to talk about your concerns but simply acknowledging to yourself that you are struggling is a significant step. Resources available to our community include:
• NAMI Help Line: 1-800-950-NAMI
• AltaPointe Health Crisis Response Team: 251-450-2211
• Veterans Recovery Resources: 251-405-3677
• Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK
Learn more at https://namimobile.org/crisis-info/.
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This media product was supported by funds made available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Center for State, Tribal, Local and Territorial Support, under 1 NH75OT000104-01-00. The content of this media product is that of the authors and does not necessarily stand for the official position of or endorsement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.