My City February 2023

ADVERTORIAL

HCHN offers the following tips for improving Mental Wellness: • Be sure to move and stay active every day. • Snack on a piece of fruit instead of a bag of chips. • Go to bed at the same time every day and get enough sleep. • Find something to enjoy each day. • Avoid using too much alcohol and avoid drugs. • Create a buddy system, someone you can call when you feel down or lonely. • Set boundaries that work for you; it’s okay to decline or say “no.” • Seek professional help, even for a short time if you need it. When you get the help you deserve, you will appreciate asking for it to get through the hard times and move toward a healthier future.

What You Should Know About Mental Health

BY STACY SAWYER DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING HAMILTON COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK

B ehavioral health, mental health, mindfulness, mental wellness – there are many terms used to describe the health status of our minds. This is rightfully so, as more than 50 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With half of us affected by a form of poor mental health, it can almost seem as though these issues are the norm. Stressful events such as losing a job, relationship issues, bereavement or money worries can often lead to poor mental health. Consistent feelings of sadness, feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just “not quite yourself ” are not normal and can lead to one’s mental health deteriorating. Many people have mild to moderate symptoms and conditions such as anxiety disorder or depression that can easily be ignored. However, even mild to moderate mental health problems need to be addressed. “Many of our patients have experienced mental health issues for years,” explained Albert Ujkaj, LMSW, MBA and

Director of the Behavioral Health Department at Hamilton Community Health Network (HCHN). “After living with it for so long, it’s a part of you and it’s your norm; but when you get therapy, you see the difference.” According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, most people live with mental illness for 11 years before getting help.That help can range from self-care to medication and therapy. A comprehensive approach is often the best approach. Mr. Ujkaj explained that HCHN provides individual therapy sessions with their behavioral health team, while a Hamilton clinician manages medication if needed, creating a comprehensive approach to mental wellness. Taking the first steps to getting help can seem confusing or difficult, but it’s important to start exploring options as soon as you think you may need help, or someone mentions it to you. Be mindful that self-care is an important habit to develop and caring for ourselves should be a priority. Never ignore suicidal thoughts and if you are having them, get help immediately.

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