Yes, mental health is important because it's a key part of overall health and well-being:
- It affects how we liveMental health affects how we think, feel, and act, and how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. It's important at every stage of life.
- It's closely linked to physical healthMental health and physical health are equally important, and they can impact each other. For example, depression can increase the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
- It's a basic human rightMental health is a fundamental part of our ability to make decisions, build relationships, and contribute to our communities.
Here are some ways to care for your mental health:
- Practice self-care: Small acts of self-care can have a big impact.You can try:
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating healthy, regular meals
- Staying hydrated
- Prioritizing sleep
- Talk about mental health: Talking about mental health can help reduce stigma and discrimination.
- Seek help if you're in crisis: If you're experiencing suicidal ideation or are in crisis, you can call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.