LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Lifestyle changes may be the key aspect in promoting positive mental health. Lifestyle changes may not be highly enforced in the medical professional. This is one of the reasons why so many people may fail to combat their health issues.

Follow these lifestyle changes and it might help you attain a positive outlook on a new life.

COUNSELING

Counseling is so important in promoting positive mental health. It is often overlooked in the medical field. A good example is when one goes to the doctor and tells him/her that he/she is feeling upset. The majority of the time the doctor may write a prescription for an antidepressant. As a result, the doctor usually does not recommend or send his/her patients for counseling. In conclusion, this may cause patients to remain upset.

In 1996 the surgeon general’s report on physical activity and health supported the beneficial effect of physical activity on relieving symptoms of depression, improving mood state, anxiety, and enhancing health-related quality of life. Two possible biological mechanisms contributing to exercise-induced changes in mental health include (1) the influence of endogenous opiates and (2) a decrease in muscle tension. The latter relates to a group of chemicals called the “B-endorphins”, agents produced by the central nervous system during times of stress and/or physical activity. There exists an exercise/ post exercise increase in B-endorphins and is believed by some to be linked to the “endorphin calm” or “runners’ high” described by active individuals. Physically active people have been shown to deal better with psychological stress. Almost one third of individuals who have central nervous system disorders generally do not respond to medications, and/or cannot tolerate the side effects. Exercise should be the number one option. Before starting an exercise program, get physical clearance from a medical doctor.

ATTITUDE

When people say attitude is everything, they are right. Having a positive attitude can help one promote positive mental health. Most people who have central nervous system disorders feel sorry for themselves and do not take any action in the right direction. People should strive to take a negative situation and turn it into a positive one.

NUTRITION

When people say you are what you eat, they are usually correct. Certain foods help maintain brainpower as one ages. For almost 100 years, scientists have known that various nutrients are important to neurological health. Consuming a proper diet may help promote positive mental health. Contact a nutritionist or a registered dietician to define a well-balanced meal.

ENVIRONMENT

Being in the right environment is important in promoting positive mental health.

Environments have been shown to affect people’s health. Being in a negative environment, such as a highly stressful job, has been linked to central nervous system disorders. If living or working in a negative environment, remove yourself from such environment and change to a positive one. A positive environment has been proven beneficial to individuals.

RELATIONSHIPS