Yesterday, Oct. 10 was World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, advocacy and awareness against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health.

According to Mental Health.gov, mental health includes emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how you think, feel and act. It helps determine how you handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Mental health is important in all stages of your life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Mental Illnesses are more common than you think; there are reasons why you should not ignore your mental health. The most vital being that it can affect your physical health. According to the Mental Health Foundation, people with the highest levels of self-rated distress-compared to the lowest rates of distress-were 32 percent more likely to have died from cancer. Depression has even been found to be associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. It comes down to taking care of yourself with the lifestyle choices that you decide to do.

Some ways you can keep your balance-or rebalance- is by first and foremost valuing yourself. When you are in a hole of any kind of related to a mental health issue, you find it hard to treat yourself with the kindness you deserve. Take the time to treat yourself with respect and try to avoid self-criticism. After you see your value, set aside some time for hobbies that you enjoy. Try doing those hobbies with good people. Having that support and care can go a long way.

Talking about your story with mental illness can help those struggling, understand that they are not the only one who feels the way they do. For those who are not affected by mental illness, the conversation alone about mental illness can help others be aware of the symptoms and prevention methods- allowing them to help others in their personal life. This makes society more informed and accepting of mental health.

Getting the help you may need soon can halt your mental health from deteriorating. If you want to know more ways to take care of yourself the right way, take a look at these tips or contact the service below.

Colorado Crisis Services

Call 1-844-492-8255

Don’t want to talk over the phone or can’t connect online? You can text HOME to 741741 from your cellphone.