Mental Health Awareness Month

The month of May has been known as Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949. Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to help people become more informed and more aware and more educated on Mental Illness. We hear from an Expert today on the importance of taking care of your Mental Health.

Owner of Rufgee Counseling Center Kristen Owen said, "So mental health is taking good care of your mind and your emotions. Your choices in your decision-making. Also, that factor in your relationships and the quality of your experience of life."

Mental illness affects people from all walks of life with the Naomi Judd being the most recent high profile individual to lose her battle with mental illness. Several studies show that there has been a rise in mental health issues.

"So we know that before covid, the statistics show that one in five adults have experienced some type of mental health problem. And we know that that's increased greatly since COVID. With all the periods of isolation and disconnection that people have experienced," stated Owen.

Owen says that there is some tell-tale sign to observe that could show that your mental health may be in jeopardy.

"If you noticed more than several days a week that you're feeling down and depressed. And maybe you can say, I don't really have a reason to feel that way.

Lack of motivation, withdrawing from your social circle or your family, isolating, not wanting to do activities that you're used to doing or having an interest in," said Owen.

There are multiple different ways to take care of your Mental Health from exercising, seeing a Therapist or Counselor, and seeking help if necessary. We hear from some individuals about what they do to take care of their Mental Health.

Curtis Cross a Meridian Resident said, "I do a lot of walking and exercises from the house and thank god for standing to see another day."

"So before I got pregnant, I would run and I would go to the gym and just listen to music that I like to lift up my spirits," said Meagan Arnold.

Experts say that now is the time to reach out and connect in a safe way and acknowledge that it’s ok to not be okay.