January is Mental Health Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Susan Alexander
  • 45th Space Wing Violence Prevention Office

MENTAL WELLNESS DEFINED

The World Health Organization defines mental wellness as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” 

FOUR DIMENSIONS OF MENTAL WELLNESS

  • Thoughts
  • Bodily functions
  • Behaviors
  • Emotions

Positive thoughts and a positive attitude help you have a better perspective on circumstance or events in your life. Everyone has moments of uncertainty and self-doubt; but if you begin isolating yourself, overeating, or not eating enough, lashing out at others, breaking into tears, these can be signs of deteriorating mental wellness — seek help to get back on track.

TIPS FOR IMPROVING MENTAL WELLNESS

It is possible to learn and practice skills that improve mental wellness that can be turned into habits: These skills include:

  • Self-appreciation — recognizing strengths and weaknesses
  • Resilience — coping with and recovering from negative events
  • Affiliation — developing & maintaining a support network
  • Negotiation — an attitude that it is okay to not to have all the answers, because no one ever does.
  • Eating well
  • Exercising and self-awareness activities such as yoga and meditation can also help reduce stress and improve mental health (sovcal.com).

RESOURCES

If you are in need of assistance, the following resources are available:

  • Mental Health — 494-8234
  • Chaplain — 494-4073
  • MFLC — 494-2273
  • DoD Safe Helpline — 877-995-5247
  • Healthcare provider
  • 911 — if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.

Questions pertaining to this article, may be directed to the 45 SW Violence Prevention Office at 494-3743.