May is Mental Health Awareness month, and at Advantis Global - people are our focus, which is why we recognize the importance of creating awareness around mental health and supporting people with mental illness.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a national movement with the purpose of raising awareness to fight the stigma, provide support, and educate the public about mental or behavioral health issues. Many organizations such as the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) join efforts to advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
The unprecedented changes that we faced collectively due to the pandemic, affected the majority of the population’s mental health. Depression, anxiety, and isolation became common experiences shared by many. We all face challenges that can affect our Mental Health. Vulnerability levels vary from person to person, and not only is it important to check in on your loved ones, but remember to check in on yourself as well.
If you're looking to get help from certified professionals, Advantis Medical Staffing has a wealth of mental health resources and contact lines.
3 Mental Health Solutions & Checklist
1. Control what you can
- Limit media consumption - News stories, celebrity gossip, and ever changing trends can contribute to increased anxiety, comparison, and worry. Additionally, social media can be damaging to your mental wellness, so occasionally take a social media cleanse.
- Get physical - This one is simple, we have heard it time and time again. Just move. Go for a walk, stretch, dance - this will help boost your energy amongst other scientifically proven benefits.
- Set boundaries - say no to tasks or activities that have a negative effect on your mood. Take care of yourself before saying "yes" to things for other people.
2. Don’t run from your feelings
- Recognize the signs of stress or anxiety - If you can recognize the signs, there is a better chance of addressing the issue. Some common signs of anxiety include restlessness, trouble concentrating, rapid breathing, etc. Try to schedule mental health check-ins with your friends or trusted professionals.
- Sit with your feelings - Acknowledge what you are feeling and recognize that it is normal. Remind yourself that you are not alone, there are many people experiencing that same feeling, especially in the current global state. This will help build resilience.
- Practice gratitude through reflection - It is very grounding and uplifting when you appreciate all the good in your life. It could be something as simple (yet grandiose) as your health, family, friends, pets, or even your favorite TV show. Focus on the things that bring you joy!
3. Ease into re-socializing:
- Don’t rush into the social scene - The vaccine welcomed the opportunity for social gatherings - people are heading back to the office, attending events (at a certain capacity), partaking in indoor dining, etc. But with a year long order of ‘social distancing’ and ‘shelter in place’, it can take some time to resocialize. Be mindful of your ‘social meter, if being around people is affecting your mental health negatively, then remove yourself from the situation.
- Be vocal about where you stand - It’s easy for people to assume that the vaccine is equivalent to going back to ‘normal’. But we’ve all changed and have different boundaries when it comes to social activities. The people that care will respect your boundaries.
- Ask for help - If you are having a hard time being around groups of people or are experiencing significant distress and need someone to talk to, reach out to someone you trust or a professional. There are many resources out there, you are not alone. If you are in a vulnerable state and need immediate help, reach out to the one of the certified professionals listed by Advantis Medical Staffing.
How Advantis Global Supports Mental Health and Wellness
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder that mental health is a priority and that those living with mental health issues deserve support and space to heal. Bringing empathy to every human interaction is at the core of Advantis culture. Learn more about our commitment to empathy and the people we work with: https://www.advantisglobal.com/people