Mental illness is a widespread issue in the United States, affecting over 20% of adults (more than 50 million) and 1 in 6 children ages 6-17. Therefore, there is absolutely no wonder why most people google for mental wellness tips!

Anxiety is the most common mental illness among adults, while major depressive episodes and suicidal thoughts are also significant concerns. However, that is not all.

You might not believe me when I say that the cases of poor mental health in the US have been rising in a very rapid way.

If you are dealing with one, or want to help others who are dealing with mental health, or just want to be aware, you have reached the right place!

Therefore, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more?

America and Rising Concerns of Metal Health

America is facing a big problem? many people are struggling with their mental health. Mental health refers to how we think, feel, and behave. Just like our bodies can get sick, our minds can too.

Lots of people in America are experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. This can make it hard for them to live their daily lives, work, and spend time with loved ones.

Some surprising facts:

• Over 50 million adults in America experience mental illness every year.
• 1 in 6 children ages 6-17 have a mental health disorder.
• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among children ages 10-14.

Many people don’t get the help they need because:

• They can’t afford it.
• They don’t know where to go for help.
• They think they can handle it on their own.

This is a big concern because mental health affects everything we do. If we don’t care for our minds, it can lead to bigger problems like being unable to work, go to school, or enjoy life.

The Prevalence of Mental Illness State-by-State

Utah has the highest rate of mental illness, with nearly 30% of adults reporting mental health concerns. Florida has the lowest rate, with 17.49% of adults reporting mental health concerns.

More than half of adults with mental illness (55%) do not receive treatment, with cost being the main barrier. Hawaii has the highest rate of untreated mental health issues, while Montana has the lowest rate.

West Virginia has the highest rate of depression, while Hawaii has the lowest rate. Suicide is a leading cause of death in America, with Montana having the highest suicide rate and New Jersey having the lowest rate.

Children are not immune to mental health issues, with 11.5% experiencing severe major depression. Oregon has the highest rate of childhood depression, while New Jersey has the lowest rate.

Top 10 Mental Wellness Tips

Most of the solutions are within your control when it comes to mental wellness. In most cases, you will discover that you don’t have to go to a hospital to get medication. Most remedies are homemade and a matter of lifestyle.

Things like what you eat and how many hours you sleep can significantly contribute to your mental wellness. However, if things go beyond your control, it is advisable to seek professional help. 

Below are 10 mental wellness tips that you need to be aware of: 

1. Get Enough Sleep 

Having enough rest comes top in our list of mental wellness tips. Sleep is important for both psychological and physical health. It helps in regulating the chemicals that transmit information in the human brain.

The role of these chemicals is to manage people’s emotions and moods. Not getting sufficient sleep will make you feel anxious and depressed. If you have any sleeping problems, learn how to overcome them. 

2. Eat Well

Eating well is important for our bodies and the human mind. Deficiencies in certain minerals, like vitamin B12 and iron, can result in a low mood. That is why you need to eat a balanced diet all the time.

If you are anxious or stressed, try to cut out or limit caffeine. It can make you feel nervous and jittery. Most people tend to ignore wellness tips. 

3. Avoid Drugs, Smoking, and Alcohol

People rarely associate smoking and drinking with withdrawal symptoms. However, both of them can hurt your mental health. After taking a few drinks and you discover that you are more anxious and depressed the following day, concentrating can become a problem. 

Drinking excessively for a prolonged period may cause a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine is crucial for the brain’s functioning, but its deficiency may lead to eye problems, confusion, coordination or motor problems, and extreme memory problems. 

For smokers, the brain and body go into a withdrawal between cigarettes, and this makes you anxious and irritable.

Other drugs also leave people in withdrawal, leading to anxiety and low moods. The more severe effects of medicines are delusions and paranoia. The use of drugs can also cause developmental disorders such as schizophrenia. 

4. Get a Lot of Sunlight 

Sunlight is a good source of Vitamin D, which is good for the brain and body. It helps the brain release chemicals that improve the mood, like serotonin and endorphins.

Go out in the sun as much as possible, but keep your eyes and skin safe. Most people don’t put sunlight among the health and wellness tips. 

Spending 30 minutes to two hours in the sunlight every day is appropriate. Some people are depressed during the winter because they don’t get enough exposure to sunlight.

This condition is referred to as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some people say that the use of special therapy lamps will help alleviate these symptoms. 

5. Stress Management 

It is virtually impossible to avoid stress. However, when you know the triggers of your anxiety and how to cope with it, you will be able to maintain good mental health.

You need to manage your responsibilities & worries by making a schedule and when to resolve each issue. 

Writing down your worries and stresses will make them more manageable. Refrain from burying your head in the sand and tackle the problems that come your way face-on.

If you have waking up or sleeping issues, look at what could be stressing you. Write them down and handle them every morning. 

6. Exercise and Activity 

Exercise and activity are good for maintaining good mental health. Being active gives people a sense of achievement and boosts the brain chemicals that put you in a good mood.

Exercise eliminates low mood, feeling tired, lazy, stressed, and anxious. However, this does not imply running a marathon of 90 minutes like a football match. Some gentle activities or taking a short walk can even do the trick. 

7. Do Something That You Enjoy Most

Spare some time and do those things that you love most. For example, if you love certain TV shows, painting, walking around, etc., it would be best to spend time doing what you enjoy most to avoid unhappiness or irritability. You can also attend some of the events that are taking place in your area. 

8. Be Sociable and Connect with Others 

Whenever you can, talk to people and try to maintain good relationships. Having friends will help your self-esteem and support you whenever you are not feeling great.

Even a ten-minute talk with others will improve your test scores and memory. If you discover that meeting people and going out is a problem, you must start socializing more. 

9. Do Things for Others

When you help other people, it is good for them and also good for you. Helping someone boosts your self-esteem by making you feel good about your position in life.

It is good to feel like you are part of society, which boosts your mental health. You may volunteer for a local charity or be neighborly. 

10. Request for Assistance

Another great item on our health tips is recognizing when you are not feeling good and telling when you require help.

Requesting help when you are stressed or low is not shameful. Speak to your family and friends about the problem, as this will enhance your mental wellness.  

Final Words

Mental illness is a significant concern in America, with many adults and children not receiving the treatment they need. Cost and lack of access to care are major barriers, and it’s essential to address these issues to ensure everyone receives the mental health support they need.

America needs to talk more about mental health and make sure people get the help they need. We can all play a role by being kind, listening to each other, and encouraging those who need help to seek it. Let’s work together to make mental health a priority!

I hope that you found this blog helpful. Please leave your comments below to let us know what else you want to read about!