4 Healthy Ways To Cope With Mental Illness

This post was contributed and may contain affiliate links. Anyone who has struggled with mental illness knows it’s not easy. It can also be very difficult to talk about because of the stigma and shaming that can often come with it. Most people don’t understand what can happen or how their loved ones really feel. That is unless they have experienced it themselves. This is one reason why so many try to hide their affliction and even completely turn away from everyone they love. Obviously, that is not the best course of action for relief and true help. Here are 4 healthy ways to cope with mental illness.

Cope with Mental Illness #1: Talk About It

Not everyone likes to share their feelings and openly talk about personal issues. However, this is exactly what needs to happen when mental illness strikes. It’s important to seek counsel with either a trusted family member, friend or a professional. It might even help to untangle a mess that’s existed for a long time. An alternative to talking is journaling. This might help to loosen some things up enough to eventually talk freely to someone else. Support and empathy from others during any kind of illness is an integral part of recovery. 

Cope with Mental Illness #2: Stabilize the Imbalance

Sometimes, therapy is not enough to balance the mental state. Medications, herbal remedies, and some other therapies are all things that can help during an acute or long-term mental illness. This type of care should only be prescribed by your healthcare professional. Some medications and even natural remedies can interfere with other meds or each other. Never self-medicate, as this could possibly make things worse. Some medications for mental illness can be quite costly. If you or someone you know might have trouble paying for meds, look into sites like www.rxoutreach.org/your-compliance-partner/ that work to make things more affordable.

Cope with Mental Illness #3: Get Around People

Though during times of mental imbalance, you or your loved one might not want to see people, it’s one of the most important things to do. Isolating yourself during a time of illness will only push you deeper into the confines of the condition. Socializing doesn’t have to be going to a huge party or park, it can be simply hanging out with one good friend. Human companionship is a necessary part of being healthy in general. Try to get out of the house and see someone else at least once a week.

Cope with Mental Illness #4: Create Your Happy Place

If you haven’t already found your happy place, create your own! What do you like to do? Where do you like to go? Maybe your outlet is music. Whether you play an instrument or you just appreciate people that do, fill the hard times with it. Break out of your comfort zone at this crucial time to help prevent further decline. I have had depression in my life and always felt better when I allowed myself to do fun things. I do understand that this might not be easy but do try.

**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.