The importance of taking a whole-health approach to mental well-being

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month — a fitting time to explore the connection between your whole health and how it relates to your mental well-being.

Whole health isn’t limited to specific symptoms or conditions, but rather how your body, mind, and relationships connect to influence your overall health. Understanding and embracing this mindset can help you improve your overall well-being and make changes that will positively impact your mental health.
 

Note the mind-body connection

Your mental health significantly impacts your physical health. 68% of adults with mental health disorders also have medical conditions . Challenges like anxiety and depression aren’t confined to your mind. They can lead to tiredness, headaches, digestive issues, and even heart disease . It works both ways — physical illness can also trigger (or worsen) mental health issues. For example, living with chronic pain can lead to feelings of anxiety or sadness. By recognizing this relationship, you can take more informed steps toward improving your total well-being.
 

Think beyond your symptoms

Adopting a whole-health mindset means taking mindful steps to see the links between your physical, behavioral, and social health. Consider the following strategies:

• Integrate healthy habits
  Regular exercise, healthier eating habits, and adequate sleep are foundational to improving overall well-being. These practices help improve physical health, uplift your mood, and reduce stress.
  
  
• Increase emotional awareness
  Tuning into your emotions allows for better stress and anxiety management. As you learn to identify and connect to your feelings , you build resilience, which can reduce their impact on your overall health.
  
  
• Lean into supportive relationships
  Approximately one in three U.S. adults report feeling lonely . Building and maintaining a strong social network can act as a buffer against mental health challenges. Trusted relationships provide support to help you cope.
   

Treat mental and physical health equally

Just as you’d make a doctor’s appointment when facing a physical health concern, your mental health deserves the same attention. Regularly assessing and addressing mental health needs with professional support can foster resilience, improve your overall quality of life, and maintain the connections that enrich your life. As you build your whole-health mindset, be sure to:

• Schedule regular mental health checkups
  Just as you schedule regular physical exams, consider putting mental health checkups on your calendar. You could start by speaking with a primary care provider or a trusted friend. You could also seek out a mental health professional.
  
  
• Address emotional changes as early as possible
  If you notice any changes in your emotional state or behavior, try to address them early on. Ignoring ongoing issues may lead to more complex problems.
   

Support is always available

Whether you’re feeling stressed or dealing with more acute issues, there are resources available to guide you through mental health challenges:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
  NAMI’s website  provides education, support, and advocacy for those affected by mental health issues.
  
  
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org  to chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Adopting a whole-health approach empowers you to live your best life by addressing all aspects of well-being. This Mental Health Awareness Month, embrace whole health and take the first steps toward a more balanced, full life.