Recently a listener asked me to say this to her. So I am also saying it to you. You are not alone. It’s Mental Health Awareness month. I am hoping mental health will soon be on an even footing with physical health.
This last year has been hugely stressful. (to put it mildly) In Britain The health minister says the mental health effects of the pandemic will be felt for years to come. We had a chance to speak with Dr Neil Brahmbhatt, DO. Dr. Neil is with Gundersen Health System.
Researchers have long been interested in the mind-body connection. For young people, feeling sad, down, or hopeless exacerbates physical symptoms. And vice versa according to research. Teens don’t know how to recognize it. I have to say I agree. One of our kids was ready to end it all at 14. We were lucky. They are still with us. Thanks to lots of help! Counselors, Physicians, Nutritionists all played a role. Because it’s all connected.
It’s okay to ask for help. And studies say it’s okay to cry. Keeping emotions bottled up can quite literally create chemical imbalances in our brains and bodies. Don’t underestimate the power of taking a walk. Try yoga.
You are not alone.