May is Mental Health Month

Get Connected - Protect Your Mental Health

When you're feeling under the weather, you may resort to chicken soup and a visit to your doctor. But when suffering emotionally, many shy away from seeking professional help because of stigmas often associated with mental illness. Medical professionals are working to change this way of thinking.

This year, Mental Health America is urging all Americans to "Get Connected and Boost Your Mental Health" during Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health professionals issue a challenge to all Americans asking that five positive health connections or relationships be made this month. "Years of research has shown that individuals who feel valued and cared for are better equipped to deal with stress and adversity and even experience less severe illnesses than those with little social support," says David Shern, Ph.D., president & CEO of Mental Health America. So get busy forming your social network. Connect to:

• Family and friends: Accept guidance and support from those closest to you, and be willing to return the favor.
• Co-workers: Take a few minutes out of your day to bond with your co-workers. Go to lunch, take a walk or share a cup of coffee.
• Community members: Focus on the needs of your community. Volunteer at a church, school, long-term care facility, hospital, or in any organization that needs assistance.
• Yourself: Put the focus on your needs. Taking care of yourself can reduce stress levels and improve health.
• Professionals: If at any point, you feel a problem is too big to handle on your own, contact a mental health professional for assistance.

Whether physical or emotional, health problems can be painful. Seek comfort in those around you. Accept the challenge to protect your mental health and get connected!

Sources include: Medical News Today at www.medicalnewstoday.com and the Substance Abuse and Health Services Administration at mentalhealth.samhsa.gov.

Keep in mind that the employee assistance program (EAP) is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This confidential program allows you to seek short-term counseling for many different types of needs including:

Stress
Emotional problems
Depression
Financial pressure

Contact Magellan Health Services at 800.808.2261.