January's Healthspot Topic: Behavioral Health
Posted on Jan 12, 2017 11:50am PST
With the New Year comes new hope.
Hope is essential to our mental health and a vital part to healthy living.
Learning to care for ourselves through eating well, exercise, being mentally
active, having regular check-ups with primary care providers, participating
in activities or hobbies that we enjoy, and having regular supportive
interactions with others are activities which support mental wellness.
One important factor that regulates our emotions and our minds is getting
adequate, restful sleep. Sleep can be affected by things such as stress,
drugs (prescription and non-prescription), alcohol, and our environment.
Developing a nightly routine that includes quiet time, no electronics,
and mindful relaxation can prepare our mind and body for a better night sleep.
An active mind is a healthy mind. Just like your body needs daily exercise
to maintain good health and be able to relax, so does your mind. Each
day, participate in activities that stimulate your brain without overwhelming
you, such as puzzles, board games, thought-provoking conversations, and
new experiences. Also remember to take time to stop, breathe, and relax.
If you have a mental health concern or question, feel free to call Gunnison
Valley Health Behavioral Health Specialist Lorie Fuller at 970-318-6323
or the Center for Mental Health at 970-641-0229. Your mental health is
essential to healthy living.