In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month,
With more than 15 years of experience in the fields of mental health and substance use, Executive Director Dr.
“Even those who have suffered from depression or anxiety before may have a hard time recognizing the symptoms when they resurface,” she explains. “When you add a traumatic event, like the pandemic, or co-occurring issues like substance use, it can be even more challenging.”
After a year of financial strain and social isolation, many Americans are still feeling the emotional toll of COVID-19. According to research by the
To help those who may be struggling with depression in silence, she offers these five tips to recognize early signs:
1. Look at your spending.
Your buying habits can help you spot patterns in your behavior that, taken alone, may not feel like a problem at the time. Is that impulse pack of cigarettes becoming an ongoing purchase? Are you ordering takeout more often because you don’t feel like cooking? An honest look at your spending can help you catch signs that you’re not feeling quite like yourself.
2. Keep a diary.
Anxiety or depression can often feel like the result of external factors. Writing down how you feel can help you recognize when feelings of depression become a pattern -- and not just a response to occasional stress.
3. Track your sleep.
Sleep quality is another helpful indicator of your mental health. Most people recognize insomnia as a problem, but getting too much sleep can also be a sign of depression,
4. Eat mindfully.
Paying attention to changes in your appetite can also help you spot early signs of depression. Notably, not everyone reacts in the same way. Some people lose their appetite; others engage in emotional eating. Understanding your own behavior can give help you stay attuned to your mental health.
5. Ask friends and family for help.
Finally,
For anyone who has struggled with substance use, becoming attuned to early signs of a mental health disorder can help to avoid relapse,
“Sobriety is a lifelong process that involves your whole health. When you’re facing the challenge of a mental health disorder, it’s harder to stay in a recovery mentality.”
To learn more about how mental health and addiction intersect, or to get more information about recovery for yourself or a loved one, get in touch at (732) 348-0705.
About
About
Sprout
Contact Information:
Sprout
646-780-9934
Contact via Email
www.sprouthealthgroup.com
Read the full story here: https://www.pr.com/press-release/835917
Press Release Distributed by PR.com
Copyright © 2021 PR.com and its licensors
, source