Be proactive

The 7 habits of highly effective people include being proactive. Being proactive is a skill that helps in proper prioritisation. When it is present, a person does not succumb to impulsive reactions. Proactive people accept responsibility for their own destiny, do not shift it to external circumstances and those around them. For them the main thing is the result, they do not expect everything to work out by itself. Such people are well aware of how they can influence the outcome of a situation by making maximum efforts to achieve their goals.

A person who wants to lose weight is an example of this. They will try to predict in advance the circumstances that could prevent this from happening. Will think about what to do in case it rains, if he runs outside every day. Will favour low-calorie snacks, replacing fast food with them.

Set a goal before you start

In order to successfully overcome the intended path, you must first set a goal, then the motivation will appear immediately. Setting clear goals will allow you to take control of your life. It’s hard to set out ways to achieve what you want when you don’t have specific goals. Aspirations help you to prioritise, focus your attention and energy on the essentials and not get bogged down by the minutiae.

By being aware of your goals, you will become more deliberate in your approach to tasks and work on them as efficiently as possible. There are people who constantly talk about their dreams, but do nothing to achieve them. Clearly setting goals will allow you to notice the anchors that are holding you in place and eliminate them by starting to move forward.

Goals give you self-confidence and enthusiasm. It’s a good idea to keep a record of what you’ve achieved, and to chart your progress. It is important to evaluate your own successes, keep yourself motivated and look for motivation to achieve what you want.

Make a Personal Mission Statement so that you don’t lose your way. Goals should be set everywhere: both at work and in your personal life.

Do everything step by step

All actions should be step-by-step, don’t try to cover everything at once. Organise and implement the most important priorities. Live and be guided by the principles you value most.

If you have too many urgent things to do, it’s an indication that you don’t know how to plan your life.

Implement this habit, and a more balanced life will be available to you.

Think win/win.

Think win-win, with less emphasis on competition, prioritising cooperation. Win-win thinking benefits both parties. This technique is recommended to be used in both work environments and personal relationships. By taking the time to do what is good for both parties, one demonstrates respect and maturity. Qualities such as honesty and confidence come to the fore. This kind of thinking has a positive effect on character and improves relationships. Both parties must remain beneficiaries.

Seek first to understand and then to be understood.

Communication is at the heart of this habit. Most people listen in order to respond, not to understand. It is important to change this way of thinking, then the response will change. A great method for understanding others on a deeper level, improving relationships.

Synergy

Synergy involves teamwork. Covey in his book “7 Habits of Successful People” says that it is “not the same as compromise. In a compromise, one plus one equals at best one and a half.” People who experience synergy take the time to truly understand the other person’s differences. This understanding is then applied to feed off each other, to gain a new understanding of the situation.

In synergy, problems are solved through open-mindedness. According to Covey, to experience synergy, one must:

– to change one’s own mind;

– to see things differently;

– experience a change in attitude.

The outcome will be an idea or a better result from the endeavour. Synergy is particularly helpful when you find yourself in a difficult situation.

“Sharpen the saw.”

This last habit emphasises the most important thing – you. “Sharpening the saw” means wasting the time you need for self-renewal.

It’s important to take care of yourself without invoking a strong preoccupation. Neglecting this advice is fraught with burnout. A person who arrives in a bad state of mind limits themselves from personal growth and goal attainment.

Empowering the body and mind erases boundaries. To “sharpen the saw” one must eat right, carve out time for rest and exercise. Establishing social and meaningful connections with others is important. It is important to study, read, and spend leisure time in nature. To expand the ‘spiritual’, use meditation, pray and listen to music.

Planning and organisation should always be present in daily life. The 7 good habits can serve as inspiration, to help you focus on positive personal changes.

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For this reason the concept is being actively promoted in large companies. In combination with a motivational system, it produces excellent results. The development and implementation of a personnel support programme is very important to top managers and pr-managers in many organisations.

Many believe that profit and staff satisfaction are inversely related. In a large number of companies, managers believe that managing people tightly will have a positive impact on performance and maximise profits. This is a misconception; if the boss has to be hard on his subordinates, it means that the wrong people are working with him, or those who are passionate about other activities.

How it affects business

Well being concept has a positive effect on business. Among the positive effects of its application are:

• increased productivity;
• an increase in team spirit and staff loyalty to management;
• an increase in employee client-orientation.

Businesses will do much better and business owners can expect to make good profits.

Key elements of the concept

The concept of well-being has several components, the main one being psychological health. The management should find out what the staff’s workload is and whether they have enough time for other areas of life. It is important to find out whether they enjoy their work environment, whether they are stressed and whether they suffer from burnout symptoms. Every employee should be allowed time off from work and holidays. Gambling is a good example of recreation for employees. To find honest and unbiased information about gambling sites in the Netherlands, check out online casino reviews https://onlinecasinozonder.nl/. If their physical and psychological condition is good, they should work with maximum dedication.

Equally important is the possibility of professional fulfillment. It wouldn’t hurt to find out if employees have professional goals and career plans, and to learn about their attitude toward their work, their desire to develop their skills and increase their productivity.

To maintain a good physical condition, you need opportunities to exercise, take up hobbies and eat a healthy diet. Medical check-ups are not to be forgotten either.

Another integral part of the concept of well-being is social relevance. You should find out how well employees get along with each other and with management, and whether they have informal conversations and meetings outside the workplace. Whether they are aware of the relevance of their work.

Another factor is material stability. People who don’t have big debts and loans feel more secure. Employees should have enough money to meet basic needs, pay bills, and take periodic vacations. The management of the organisation should make sure that people get paid their wages on time and that they have savings.

There are several aspects that are required in order to create a work environment that enables employees to fulfil their potential for the benefit of the organisation and for self-realisation. Employee satisfaction with the working conditions created by management is important.

Well-being programmes

More and more companies are implementing wellness programmes. In such an environment, staff are free to develop and remain physically and psychologically healthy. Employees’ wellbeing and productivity can be influenced.

Psychological wellness programmes are essential for effective work performance. When life becomes stressful, they inevitably develop health problems, and their work performance suffers.

Office workers should have the opportunity to work remotely from time to time. A change of work environment is always beneficial, providing a break from the usual office atmosphere.

Professionals who work remotely should be helped to set up a workplace, for example by providing a fast laptop or a place in a co-working centre.

The number of companies offering flexible working hours to employees is gradually increasing. People have the opportunity to arrange their working hours according to their individual needs, which makes them happier than those who are obliged to adhere to strict timetables.

In addition to this, various activities that help bring employees together are encouraged. Courses and training sessions that aid personal growth and teach emotional well-being management.

In many organisations a psychologist is available for consultation as needed. The role of a psychologist can be either an in-house or an in-house specialist. This can be in one-to-one or group sessions, or in a webinar format.

Taking care of the emotional health of staff prevents professional burnout.

A system of professional development is encouraged so that professionals can move confidently towards their goals and feel satisfied with the progress they have made.

Another useful piece of management advice is to set up a career plan with employees, taking into account the interests of the company and the individuals concerned. Career progression can be vertical, leading to management positions, or horizontal, within a particular specialty.

Staff competence should be assessed on a regular basis by creating an individual development plan, specifying the specific competences which need to be developed, training activities and timing.

It would not be superfluous to organize corporate training of people who work in the company, so that they could transfer their knowledge and skills. Particular attention is paid to the training of new employees, to facilitate their adaptation in the organisation. This will reduce the number of redundancies at the beginning of employment. In addition to this, training programmes should be developed to support the implementation of the IPR of existing employees.

Transferring knowledge to employees can be done through online platforms. Employees will be able to track their progress in training, and the training itself will become a fun game. People will demonstrate a desire to move to the next level, to the next stage in their career development.

Well-being is an innovative approach to corporate culture and staff well-being – it’s a godsend for businesses, but it’s all about getting it right.

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How Nutrition Impacts Mental Health

Good nutrition is essential for maintaining a healthy brain and supporting mental health. The brain is the most energy-intensive organ in the body, and it requires a constant supply of nutrients to function properly. Different nutrients have different effects on the brain and mental health, and it is important to have a balanced intake of all the essential nutrients.

Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, play an important role in maintaining mental health. For example, vitamin B12, folate, and iron are essential for the production of neurotransmitters, which are the chemicals responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells. A deficiency in these micronutrients can lead to a reduction in neurotransmitter production and a decline in mental health.

Macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, are also essential for mental health. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the brain, and a diet that is low in carbohydrates can lead to low mood, irritability, and poor cognitive performance. Proteins are the building blocks of the brain and are essential for brain function and repair. Fats are also important, as they provide the brain with the necessary building blocks to produce neurotransmitters and maintain healthy brain function.

The impact of poor nutrition on mental health cannot be overstated. A diet that is high in processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can have a negative impact on mental health. Moreover, consuming a diet that is low in essential nutrients can lead to deficiencies that can impact mental health and well-being.

Tips for a Healthier Mind through Nutrition

To achieve good mental health through nutrition, it is important to adopt a balanced and nutritious diet. Here are some tips to help you achieve a healthier mind through nutrition:

• Eating a balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-dense foods: It’s amazing how our bodies and minds respond to what we put in them. Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, like colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins, can give your brain the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. By making sure you get a good mix of all the important vitamins and minerals, you’re setting yourself up for a happier and healthier mind!

• Avoid processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats: On the other hand, processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can be a real downer for our mental health. These types of foods can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can negatively impact our mood and overall well-being. So, try to limit these types of foods as much as possible and opt for wholesome, nutritious options instead.
• Incorporate mental health-boosting foods: Did you know that certain foods can actually boost your mental health? It’s true! Omega-3 rich foods, like salmon and nuts, are great for reducing inflammation and improving brain function. And, probiotics found in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir have also been linked to a positive impact on mental health. So, why not give these brain-boosting foods a try and see how they make you feel?
• Stay hydrated and get enough sleep: It’s not just what we eat that can impact our mental health, but also how well we take care of our bodies in general. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep are both crucial for good mental health. Adequate hydration helps keep our brains functioning well, and getting enough sleep can reduce stress and improve our mood. So, don’t neglect these important self-care habits!

Conclusion

In conclusion, good nutrition is essential for maintaining good mental health. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, along with adequate hydration and sleep, can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. By taking care of your physical health through good nutrition, you can also improve your mental health and achieve a healthier mind

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The FF clinic

Not far from the center of San Francisco, there is a small clinic called FF, named after the founder of the clinic Francesca Fellini. The clinic has a very good reputation for having high-quality therapists that help people get through their difficulties every day. Those who visit this clinic highly recommend it to their friends. However, not all of them know the story behind the foundation of the clinic. The founder of the clinic, Francesca, has a huge fanbase on social platforms, and she occasionally makes live therapy sessions with her followers by answering their questions. In one of her recent lives, one of the followers asked about her idea to open the clinic. And she shared some details that were not shared before. 

How the FF clinic was founded

After graduating from the university and having all the licenses to become a certified therapist, Francesca Felini started to think about opening her clinic in her hometown, San Francisco. Once she did her research and got information from her friends who also have clinics in other towns, she soon understood that she was not yet prepared to have a business, as she didn’t have the finances to open one. However, she was very determined to open her clinic, and she started to approach her goal slowly. She decided to start online therapy as many people had an interest in this kind of service as well. After a few months, when Francesca already had a deposit to start her business, she started to check for places for her clinic. And she faced another obstacle. Her finances were not enough to have the place she liked. That is when her friends suggested she check for lending companies for a business loan. At first, she was hesitant, as she didn’t know anything about such companies and their packages. And one of her friends suggested checking the comparison websites such as smalan-norge.com. Francesca’s friends were always there for her and always supported her through all her journeys, and this one was no exception. When she and her friends were in the search of finding the best lending option, she came upon a few options.

During her life, she also mentioned some of the lending companies she found online that had offered her the loan she requested. At first, she mentioned this link https://smalan-norge.com/instabank-logg-inn, saying that she accepted the loan from Instabank. The second company she applied for the loan for was for this link here https://smalan-norge.com/zmarta-logg-inn. She mentioned that both loan options were great, but the first offer she got from Instabank. According to her, when she received the confirmation of the loan, she celebrated this huge milestone with her friends. And right from the following morning, she started to develop her business. She rented the place she wanted, changed the design and the interior of the place to make it more intimate and minimalistic, and started to hire a few staff for the clinic. Additionally, she has also thought about the name of the clinic, the logo, and the branding. She kept the name very simple, putting her initials as if it was her success and merit. Another thing she started to make was the advertising strategy. Soon, her clinic became very popular, and she started to welcome many patients and help them with various issues.

It has been three years since her clinic has been operating, and Francesca proudly mentions that the clinic has more than 500 patients, and they help change people’s life into a better place. She says that being a therapist is a very hard job as you always listen to many different and heartbreaking stories, and you need to help those people to overcome their issues. However, she loves her job as with every therapy session, she sees that she could help one more patient. Helping people was the main reason that she became a therapist, opened her clinic, and reached the level of excellence she is now. Her future plans for the clinic include a rebranding with a new place, a new design, and more staff to be able to help even more people. 

Francesca’s lives and Q&A always inspire many young girls, as she is a great example of a young lady who can become a successful businesswoman who made everything from scratch with her hardworking and dynamic personality. 

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Yoga can help balance your psychological well being

Those who do yoga training sessions can confirm that different variations of yoga can help on different occasions. It especially can be helpful when you combine the special poses with breathing exercises to bring more peacefulness and calmness to their mind. The main component of this benefit is the fact that those poses and entire sessions help people improve their balance, strengthen their flexibility and motions as well as become connected with their minds. When doing yoga, people have a feel-good feeling after they finish the session, as during the session they concentrate on their body and mind. Throughout the sessions, people can get various brain chemicals such as serotonin or dopamine, which can quickly boost their mood. Since people are working on obtaining the right posture for yoga sessions, their muscles start to work, and the heart starts to beat faster, which releases a big amount of mood chemicals. Therefore, anyone who has practiced yoga felt happier and calmer after the session.

Based on another study, this practice helps ease depression. That is why many individuals do yoga when they feel depressed or stressed out. Recent studies even claim that this practice can be compared to various medications or therapy sessions. Usually, yoga can have the same influence on people as going to therapy or taking antidepressants. Relieving anxiety and panic attacks are other beneficial factors for those who want to practice yoga. After doing yoga, people claim that they feel less stressed or anxious after having a yoga session. Throughout the entire session, you are releasing your tensions and relaxing your muscles, becoming more peaceful with your mind and body. Adding other factors, such as mindful breathing, calming sounds, and a relaxed environment, you can definitely feel less stressed.

By doing yoga, people can also improve their sleep and notice an improvement in their social activities. Yoga has also shown improvement in sleeping in people. They also noticed other improvements in their social lives after practicing yoga. They feel more energized to socialize after the sessions, especially when they go to yoga classes in person.

Enhancing your mental well-being with yoga

If you decide to try to start doing yoga to make your mental well-being better, try to look for yoga classes with certified yogis at first. The sessions can be arranged either privately or with a group. Of course, you can try to download special apps with yoga sessions and practice at home. However, having a qualified teacher who will show you how to do the right poses and guide you through the entire session is more recommended. You will also need to check if there is any special yoga equipment aside from the yoga mat that you’ll need for your classes. As soon as you get the hang of the poses and training sessions, you can start practicing at your home. It has been shown that yoga is best to practice when you feel anxious, stressed, or lack concentration.

Are there any risks in practicing yoga?

Everything depends on the age you start doing yoga. It can come harder for older adults. However, the severe risks when doing yoga are very low. You should keep in mind that you might get some injuries or muscle aches when you practice yoga. However, everything can become easier once you make a couple of sessions. Even though you get some injuries during your practice, continuing the session will bring more relief to the tension, and you will feel less and less pain with each training session. People of older age have less strength in their muscles. That is why it is better to start with qualified classes with teachers so that you avoid any kind of injuries. Additionally, talking to a doctor before taking any yoga classes can be useful for older people. However, you should keep that in mind. Yoga can surely help you feel more relaxed and calmer at any age.

The bottom line

Doing yoga can surely help release most of your stresses and enhance your health. However, it is important to check up on your well-being with a doctor. Although you might feel better after your yoga session, having a professional opinion from a qualified doctor is essential. Seek professional help whenever you feel anxious or depressed. And always try to keep your mental and physical health in balance and harmony.

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Discrimination against people with a mental illness is common, and it can greatly impact the lives of those who suffer from it. People with mental illness are more likely to experience discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. But what else has been shown to affect people with mental illness? 

Here are six ways discrimination affects people with a mental illness:

Shame

Discrimination can cause shame, leading to self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse or suicide attempts. It is especially true when it comes to job discrimination. Having a mental health condition makes it more difficult to get hired in the first place. But once hired, those who disclose their conditions are more likely to face discrimination at work.

Furthermore, people with mental illnesses often feel a sense of shame about their diagnoses. They may fear that others will judge them because of their condition and may keep quiet about their struggles. It can make them feel isolated, worsening any symptoms they may be experiencing.

Stigma

Stigma is an unfair stereotype about a person or group that makes them appear less worthy and deserving of respect, love, and acceptance than others in society. People with mental illnesses face stigma because they are often portrayed in the media as dangerous, violent, and unpredictable. 

It perpetuates myths about mental illness and makes it harder for people with a mental illness to be accepted by their friends, family members, and co-workers.

They often face stigma in the workplace and other aspects of life. People with mental illnesses are less likely to be hired than those without such conditions. Discrimination also comes into play regarding wages and promotions among those with a mental illness.

Lack of Treatment

Discrimination can lead to a lack of access to quality care and treatment. People with mental illnesses often avoid seeking treatment because they fear being stigmatized by their family, friends, and community members. 

Fear of discrimination also prevents many people from getting the help they need. Many with mental health needs do not receive treatment due to discrimination and stigma. Most individuals with severe depression or anxiety don’t even recognize that they need help until they’ve reached crisis levels — if at all. 

If you’re worried about how your condition will affect your relationships or career prospects, consider seeking professional help before the situation worsens.

Social Isolation 

Discrimination can lead to social exclusion — isolation from others. It can be detrimental to your health when you’re already dealing with issues related to your mental illness. Social isolation can also make it harder for someone with depression or anxiety to recover from their condition. 

Therefore, being excluded from social situations can increase the chances of chronic depression or relapse after treatment has been successful for some time.  People with mental illnesses often find themselves shunned by society at large. 

While this may not cause physical harm, it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. That makes it difficult for individuals to communicate their needs and get help when they need it most.

Prejudice

Prejudice occurs when someone has an irrational dislike or hatred for someone or something based on a personal belief or opinion. When it comes to mental health issues, many people have preconceived notions about what these disorders entail and how they impact individuals. These misconceptions can lead to unfair treatment in school, work, or social situations.

Prejudice is the negative attitude towards people with mental illnesses. It can be based on fear, ignorance, or stereotypes that the public has about people with mental illnesses. It is thinking that people with mental illnesses are dangerous or less intelligent.

Prejudice often prevents individuals from getting the help they need for their condition. It may lead them to believe their entire life will be negatively affected by their diagnosis. 

Stereotyping 

Discrimination based on stereotypes is a common occurrence. The stereotypes that people with a mental illness face are often based on inaccurate information, and they can lead to prejudice against people with mental illnesses.

Stereotyping can be so powerful that it can lead individuals to make assumptions about someone else’s behavior simply because they have a mental illness. In other words, the stereotype about a person with a mental illness might influence how those around them interpret their actions or speech. Stereotypes can also lead us to expect certain behaviors from people based on their appearance alone.

In addition, it’s a belief that all people with mental illnesses are the same despite having different symptoms and needs. A person with a mental illness is viewed as someone not competent to perform certain jobs or handle certain life responsibilities. These stereotypes can hurt the individual’s chances of getting hired or promoted at work, renting an apartment, or even getting accepted into college.

Let’s Stop the Discrimination Now!

Discrimination against people with mental illness is widespread and can seriously impact their lives. The social stigma surrounding mental health issues can make it difficult to find housing, employment, and other essential services. Not only does this affect the individual, but it also impacts their family members and friends.

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Mental disorders are conditions that interfere with a person’s ability to function in daily life. They can affect mood, thinking and behavior. There are different types of mental disorders, but they all have one thing in common: They cause emotional distress and disrupt a person’s ability to function at home, school or work.

Anyone can develop a mental disorder at any age. But early intervention can help prevent the development of more severe problems. So if you think you may have a mental disorder, don’t hesitate to get help! If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else, here are some signs that could signal a mental health problem:

Social Withdrawal

One of the most common signs of mental illness is social withdrawal. People suffering from mental disorders often have trouble interacting with others and may even avoid spending time. They may also avoid eye contact or voice inflection when speaking to others. 

It can make them seem cold and distant, even if they’re not trying to be that way on purpose. If you notice these behaviors in yourself or someone else, it could be an indication that they have some sort of mental illness.

People with mental health disorders can also withdraw from friends and family members because they feel ashamed of their symptoms. It could also be because they feel too tired or overwhelmed to socialize. They may also have trouble communicating their feelings to others.

Mood Changes

Mood swings are common among people with depression but can also be seen in other mental disorders like bipolar disorder (manic depression). If your mood suddenly shifts from happy to sad or irritable without apparent cause, it could signify something is wrong in your life. But if this is happening regularly, it could be a sign of a more serious problem like depression.

In addition, you might notice that your loved one has been acting differently lately — perhaps they seem sad or anxious all the time, or angry or irritable. These kinds of changes can be signs that there’s something wrong with their mental health.

If you feel like you’re going through extreme mood swings that last for hours or days, then this could indicate a mental health condition such as bipolar disorder or clinical depression.

Trouble Sleeping 

Everyone has trouble sleeping sometimes — especially young children and teenagers.

Sleep is a vital part of your physical and mental health. Not getting enough sleep can make you feel depressed, anxious, irritable, and even more likely to gain weight. If you’re having trouble sleeping or feeling tired all the time, this may be an early sign of depression or anxiety disorder.

You may have insomnia if you have a hard time falling or staying asleep. This condition can occur on its own or as part of another condition such as depression or anxiety disorder. Insomnia can also be caused by lifestyle factors such as stress and too much caffeine or alcohol use at night before bedtime.

Having Suicidal Thoughts

If you are having thoughts about death or suicide, it is crucial that you seek help. These thoughts may be fleeting and come and go, but if they persist, it is best to get help from your doctor or another professional who can help you deal with them.

Suicidal thoughts may come on suddenly or develop over time. Do not ignore them if they are causing you distress and anxiety. Some people feel suicidal in the short term when they first start experiencing certain symptoms, but this feeling usually disappears after treatment begins.

Having Hallucinations or Delusions

Hallucinations are defined as seeing things that aren’t there, while delusions are false beliefs that someone holds despite evidence to the contrary. Both of these symptoms indicate that something is wrong with your brain and should be treated by a professional immediately.

If you are hearing, seeing, feeling and smelling things that aren’t there, you may have a mental disorder. This type of hallucination is called a sensory hallucination. A delusion is a belief that something is true even though it isn’t.

Inability to Concentrate

When you have trouble concentrating on a task because your mind keeps wandering, this could indicate something in your brain that needs attention. It could be a sign of depression or anxiety, both mental disorders.

If you find it difficult to focus on the task at hand and complete tasks promptly, this could indicate an underlying mental condition. It’s essential to seek help if you notice that this issue is becoming more pronounced over time or if it interferes with your ability to function normally in everyday life.

Excessive Stress and Anxiety

People suffering from an anxiety disorder experience excessive fear and worry that can interfere with their daily lives. They may constantly feel afraid of certain things (such as spiders), or they may avoid situations in which they feel anxious (such as public speaking). People who suffer from an anxiety disorder have difficulty controlling these feelings and behaviors.

Check on Your Mental Health Today!

Mental disorders are medical conditions that affect the way you think, feel, and act. They can be mild to severe. They are also not easy to diagnose and often difficult to talk about. In many cases, it can take years for someone to seek treatment, either because they don’t realize they need help or because they’re afraid to seek treatment.

Mental disorders are not always easy to identify. While some people may have obvious symptoms, many others do not. Some mental illnesses can be difficult to diagnose because they are similar to other conditions. Others can be hard to recognize because they don’t cause noticeable behavioral changes.

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Mental illness can also be difficult to live with. It can affect your work, social life, and family relationships. Here are seven things that can improve the quality of life for people with mental illness:

Educate Yourself and Others About Mental Illness

The more you know about your condition, the better equipped you’ll be to manage it. You may also want to educate friends and family members, so they understand what it’s like for you and how important their support is.

Learn the facts about mental health and substance abuse disorders, including how they’re diagnosed and treated. Also, who is likely to develop them, their symptoms, and how they can be prevented or treated early. Mental illnesses affect everyone differently, but there are similarities among people who have them.

Stop Stigmatizing Mental Health Issues

Mental illness is a disease like any other, but the stigma surrounding it makes it harder for people to get help. People who struggle with mental health feel ashamed or embarrassed by their condition. They may not want to talk about it because they fear being judged or labeled as crazy or insane by others.

The more we talk about our struggles openly, the less likely we feel shame about them — and the more likely we will get help when we need it most. People with mental health issues are less likely to seek treatment if they feel stigmatized by society. 

Seek Support From Friends and Family

People with mental health problems are often isolated, making it harder to cope with their illness. Talking to friends and family is a good way to feel connected and get support. You could also join a group where you meet people who have had similar experiences.

People with mental illness may feel isolated from friends and family because of their condition. This isolation can harm your health, so it’s essential to reach out for support when needed.

Find a therapist or counselor specializing in treating people with your particular condition, such as depression or bipolar disorder. You’ll be more likely to find someone who understands what you’re going through and can offer useful advice if they’re familiar with your specific needs. 

Be Kind to Yourself

It’s easy to put yourself down when you’re feeling low. But if you want to feel better, stop beating yourself up and remember that you’re doing the best you can at the moment. You might find it helpful to write down your thoughts in a journal so that they don’t weigh so heavily on your mind.

Get Active

Physical activity helps reduce stress and improves mood and feelings of well-being. It also helps boost self-esteem, makes you stronger and healthier, increases energy levels, and helps you sleep better at night.

Being active can also help manage symptoms of depression or anxiety by giving you time to relax without having to think about other things when you exercise (like work or school). Exercise also sparks the release of endorphins in the brain that make us feel good — so it’s like taking an antidepressant pill without swallowing anything! 

It doesn’t take much — just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week will do the trick. Choose something that fits your lifestyle — whether it’s taking a leisurely stroll around the block after dinner or going for a run before work — and get started today! If you want to go with gaming, you can join betting sites not on Gamstop for a more relaxing activity.

Identify Stressors in Your Life

It’s often said that we can’t change the events in our lives; we can only change how we react to them. The same applies to people with mental illness. It’s a matter of identifying stressors in your life, whether work-related or personal, and finding ways to cope with them. Stress can worsen symptoms, so it’s important to take steps to reduce it in your life.

Identifying the things that trigger stress can help you cope better with these situations. For example, if you tend to get anxious when you’re around people you don’t know well, or in large groups, you may want to avoid those situations altogether. Or, if certain foods make you feel worse, try avoiding them as well.  

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is vital to stay healthy, but many people with mental illnesses have trouble sleeping at night. Try taking a warm bath before bed, reading in dim light instead of bright light before bed, or listening to music for relaxation before sleeping.

Having trouble sleeping is one of the most common symptoms of depression, but it also affects people who don’t have depression too — including many children! Sleep deprivation can make you cranky, irritable, and even physically ill — making it harder to concentrate and learn new things at school or work.

Improve the Quality of Life Despite Mental Illness

Mental illnesses are a real part of life and can affect people of all ages. If you have a mental illness, you know how difficult it can be to live with. It can also be hard to find help because many people don’t understand what it’s like to live with this type of condition.

Mental health issues can be caused by several factors — from genetics to trauma to substance use disorder. Some of these things are easier to control than others, but the above ways can help improve the quality of life for yourself or someone you care about with mental illness.

The post 7 Things That Can Improve Quality of Life for People With Mental Illness appeared first on Two Wish Stars.

From worrying about your health to being overly concerned about everyday situations, anxiety can impact your life in many ways. If you have a loved one with anxiety, it’s important to know how to support them through their journey. Here are eight ways to support someone who has anxiety:

Listen Without Judgment

Anxiety can make a person irrational and paranoid. So it’s important that when your friend or family member is talking about their fears and worries, they don’t feel judged (even if they say something absurd). “Avoid saying things like ‘that’s ridiculous,’ or ‘what’s wrong with you?’ These comments will only make them feel worse. 

Instead, acknowledge how difficult their situation is and that you’re on their side no matter what happens in their lives. Let them talk and know what they’re going through is real to them. It will help build trust between the two of you so that they’ll be more willing to open up when the time comes again.

Ask if They Are Okay 

It can be hard for family members and friends to know if a loved one is having an anxiety attack. But sometimes, it’s obvious that something is wrong — they might look panicked or upset, or they could seem like they’re in physical pain. If so, don’t hesitate to ask if they need help.

If your loved one isn’t doing well, ask them if they need help. It’s important to let them know that you care about their health and wellbeing and want to see them get better. If they say yes, offer to come over or give them a call later in the day to see how things are going. If they say no, or don’t respond, don’t press the issue — just let it go for now.

Distract Them from Their Worries by Helping Them Relax

Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia and muscle tension, making it difficult for someone with anxiety to fall asleep at night. It can also make it hard for people to relax and unwind. They may have trouble sleeping or concentrating on things that used to be enjoyable. Helping them relax can help reduce their anxiety level and improve their quality of life.

It often stems from worrying about what could go wrong in the future. If your loved one is worried about something specific, distract them by talking about something else or engaging in an activity that takes their mind off the problem for a while.

For example, you can try taking up activities together to bond over something fun — even if it’s just playing games at non GamStop slots UK, watching TV, or going through photos together.

Offer Reassurance When Needed

If your loved one has an attack of panic or worry, let them know that you’re there for them and that everything will be okay. When your loved one feels anxious, remind them that the feelings aren’t dangerous or harmful. 

Anxiety is often linked to negative thinking patterns and beliefs about the world. It can be difficult for someone with anxiety to see this on their own. Hence, it’s helpful for family members to point out when their loved ones are overreacting to situations or making assumptions that don’t reflect reality.

When your loved one is struggling with an anxious thought or feeling, let them know everything will be okay. “I know it’s hard right now, but I’m here for you,” might be all they need to hear to feel better about the situation.

Encourage Relaxation Exercises

Simple breathing exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety by slowing the heart rate and reducing muscle tension. You can teach your loved one how to do deep breathing exercises by counting out loud while inhaling for five seconds and exhaling for seven seconds (or vice versa).

Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help if Needed

Some people may need professional help to manage their anxiety symptoms. If your loved one is reluctant to seek treatment, encourage them to talk with their doctor or mental health professional. You can also provide emotional support while they look into treatment options.

Anxiety disorders often coexist with other mental health issues such as depression and substance use disorders. So, your loved one might also benefit from therapy with a therapist trained in treating co-occurring disorders.

Be Willing to Go With Them to Therapy Sessions 

Most people with anxiety don’t like going to therapy by themselves. They may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing their feelings in front of another person. If this is the case, it’s important that you’re willing to go with them to help make things easier on them during this time. Therapy sessions are meant to be helpful, so don’t be afraid to go with them!

Maintain Clear Boundaries

It’s important that you maintain clear boundaries with your loved one who has anxiety, so they do not rely solely on you for support. You should still offer support when possible, but ensure it’s optional rather than required. If they don’t want your help, respect their wishes and move on with your life.

Provide Support to a Loved One With Anxiety

Anxiety can cause feelings of worry, nervousness, and unease. It’s normal to feel anxious when faced with a challenging situation. Still, anxiety disorders are different in that the feelings of anxiety are excessive and interfere with your day-to-day functioning.

It can be hard for a loved one to admit they need help. But if your friend or a family member has anxiety, you can be an important part of their recovery.

The post 8 Ways to Support a Loved One Who Has Anxiety appeared first on Two Wish Stars.

One in five adults in the U.S.—around 47.6 million people—experience mental illness. Less than half seek treatment. And those who do often wait a decade or more to get help. Let’s let that sink in. A full 20 percent of us are struggling with some form of mental illness…right now. And, most of us won’t ask for help because we’re embarrassed or ashamed.

What’s up with that? The topic of mental health is more visible than ever. So why do so few people get the help they need? The answer is that stigma is still a huge barrier.

When someone has a physical illness like cancer, diabetes or even a broken leg, we rally around them and offer support. And rightly so. Research has shown that having a strong support network can promote resilience and help people manage stress during difficult times.

So why is it that when someone is struggling with mental illness, from the mildest to the most severe forms, rather than offering support, we throw out platitudes like “Snap out of it,” “Just be positive,” or “A lot of people have it worse than you”? This glossing over real emotional pain can do much more harm than good.

Misconceptions Of Mental Illness Are Still Widespread

There are many reasons why people develop mental health conditions and research suggests multiple overlapping causes. Genetics, biology, lifestyle, traumatic life events, or environmental injustice can all play a role. But regardless of the reason, mental health conditions are real health problems.

Stigmatization of mental illness isn’t something new. Marginalization of people with mental illness has been going on for thousands of years. Early beliefs about the causes of mental illness, such as demonic possession, magic, the wrath of a deity or moral punishment, provoked reactions of fear, mistrust, and discrimination.

We’ve learned a lot about the nature of various psychological conditions since ancient times thanks to scientific advancements, yet people with mental illnesses continue to be perceived as violent, unpredictable, or dangerous. Inaccurate portrayals of mental illness in television, films, and other forms of media further perpetuate these beliefs.

According to clinical psychologist Todd Essig, Ph.D., there’s a reason why we stigmatize. It’s a kind of coping mechanism, albeit a flawed one. The idea behind this way of thinking is that if you create a wide gap between the mentally ill and those who are not ill, that distance almost creates a buffer, like you’re safe because you’re on the right side of the gap. But here’s the reality: there is no wide gap; it’s a fine line. And, anyone can become mentally ill at any time.

Another key issue is that some forms of mental illness are confused with personality traits, mischaracterized, or perceived as character defects rather than bona fide medical conditions. You’ve heard them, “You’re so manic,” “Don’t be so OCD,” or “She’s schizo.”

To add to that, an abundance of Instagrammable #selfcare rituals, positive thinking mantras, and inspirational quotes can give the impression that mental illness is just a mood or mindset that can be treated without a more serious healthcare intervention, such as medicine, talk therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Why Stigma Matters

Breaking negative stereotypes isn’t just about being kumbaya. Hanging on to stigmas has some pretty far-reaching effects—and not just for the person experiencing mental illness, but for everyone. Here’s how:

It literally makes people sick

People who feel ashamed of their illness try to hide it and don’t get the help they need. This means not only does their mental illness not get better, but their physical health can be impacted too. Case in point: research suggests that people with depression have a 40 percent higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population.

“As we continue to advocate for adequate resources and services to treat and support those with mental health issues, we must also address the role stigma plays in preventing people from accessing those services,” says Wendy Burch, Executive Director of NAMI’s New York State chapter. “The reluctance on the part of many to seek needed mental health services stems from their fear of how others will view them.”

Here’s another problem: The stigma of mental illness can make relationships difficult to maintain. Family and friends may distance themselves, increasing feelings of isolation. It’s a vicious cycle—loneliness can aggravate anxiety and depression and even trigger an inflammatory response that puts our immune system at risk.

It complicates treatment

Societal stigma can get in the way of how you’re treated. Healthcare providers, unfortunately, are not immune to stereotypes. Studies have shown that people with a history of mental illness receive poorer quality care for their physical health problems and are often not taken seriously when describing their symptoms for non-mental health concerns.

It has a major economic impact

According to the World Economic Forum, mental illness will alone account for more than half of the global economic burden from non-communicable diseases between 2011–2030. A big part of that economic burden is the loss of income due to unemployment. The true costs may even be higher when you consider how mental illness ups the risk for things like cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes.

And, then there’s the issue that those who have jobs will likely need to stay home sick at some point. There are over 200 million workdays lost due to mental health conditions each year. Add to that the fact that half of millennials and 75% of Gen Zers report that they have left a job for mental health reasons according to a study by Mind Share Partners, and it’s clear that addressing stigma is critical for both the workforce resilience and economic stability.

What We Can Do About It

The best way to beat stigma? Speak openly and honestly about mental health. Sharing personal experiences is a powerful way to shift attitudes. In recent years, celebrities and sports figures have stepped forward to speak out about their own struggles with mental health issues and it’s made huge strides in normalizing the conversation around mental health and spreading knowledge. Putting a face to mental illness and demonstrating that it can affect anyone, inspires others to open up about their issues.

One in five adults in the U.S.—around 47.6 million people—experience mental illness. Less than half seek treatment. And those who do often wait a decade or more to get help. Let’s let that sink in. A full 20 percent of us are struggling with some form of mental illness…right now. And, most of us won’t ask for help because we’re embarrassed or ashamed.

What’s up with that? The topic of mental health is more visible than ever. So why do so few people get the help they need? The answer is that stigma is still a huge barrier.

When someone has a physical illness like cancer, diabetes or even a broken leg, we rally around them and offer support. And rightly so. Research has shown that having a strong support network can promote resilience and help people manage stress during difficult times.

So why is it that when someone is struggling with mental illness, from the mildest to the most severe forms, rather than offering support, we throw out platitudes like “Snap out of it,” “Just be positive,” or “A lot of people have it worse than you”? This glossing over real emotional pain can do much more harm than good.

Misconceptions Of Mental Illness Are Still Widespread

There are many reasons why people develop mental health conditions and research suggests multiple overlapping causes. Genetics, biology, lifestyle, traumatic life events, or environmental injustice can all play a role. But regardless of the reason, mental health conditions are real health problems.

Stigmatization of mental illness isn’t something new. Marginalization of people with mental illness has been going on for thousands of years. Early beliefs about the causes of mental illness, such as demonic possession, magic, the wrath of a deity or moral punishment, provoked reactions of fear, mistrust, and discrimination.

We’ve learned a lot about the nature of various psychological conditions since ancient times thanks to scientific advancements, yet people with mental illnesses continue to be perceived as violent, unpredictable, or dangerous. Inaccurate portrayals of mental illness in television, films, and other forms of media further perpetuate these beliefs.

According to clinical psychologist Todd Essig, Ph.D., there’s a reason why we stigmatize. It’s a kind of coping mechanism, albeit a flawed one. The idea behind this way of thinking is that if you create a wide gap between the mentally ill and those who are not ill, that distance almost creates a buffer, like you’re safe because you’re on the right side of the gap. But here’s the reality: there is no wide gap; it’s a fine line. And, anyone can become mentally ill at any time.

Another key issue is that some forms of mental illness are confused with personality traits, mischaracterized, or perceived as character defects rather than bona fide medical conditions. You’ve heard them, “You’re so manic,” “Don’t be so OCD,” or “She’s schizo.”

To add to that, an abundance of Instagrammable #selfcare rituals, positive thinking mantras, and inspirational quotes can give the impression that mental illness is just a mood or mindset that can be treated without a more serious healthcare intervention, such as medicine, talk therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Why Stigma Matters

Breaking negative stereotypes isn’t just about being kumbaya. Hanging on to stigmas has some pretty far-reaching effects—and not just for the person experiencing mental illness, but for everyone. Here’s how:

It literally makes people sick

People who feel ashamed of their illness try to hide it and don’t get the help they need. This means not only does their mental illness not get better, but their physical health can be impacted too. Case in point: research suggests that people with depression have a 40 percent higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population.

“As we continue to advocate for adequate resources and services to treat and support those with mental health issues, we must also address the role stigma plays in preventing people from accessing those services,” says Wendy Burch, Executive Director of NAMI’s New York State chapter. “The reluctance on the part of many to seek needed mental health services stems from their fear of how others will view them.”

Here’s another problem: The stigma of mental illness can make relationships difficult to maintain. Family and friends may distance themselves, increasing feelings of isolation. It’s a vicious cycle—loneliness can aggravate anxiety and depression and even trigger an inflammatory response that puts our immune system at risk.

It complicates treatment

Societal stigma can get in the way of how you’re treated. Healthcare providers, unfortunately, are not immune to stereotypes. Studies have shown that people with a history of mental illness receive poorer quality care for their physical health problems and are often not taken seriously when describing their symptoms for non-mental health concerns.

It has a major economic impact

According to the World Economic Forum, mental illness will alone account for more than half of the global economic burden from non-communicable diseases between 2011–2030. A big part of that economic burden is the loss of income due to unemployment. The true costs may even be higher when you consider how mental illness ups the risk for things like cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes.

And, then there’s the issue that those who have jobs will likely need to stay home sick at some point. There are over 200 million workdays lost due to mental health conditions each year. Add to that the fact that half of millennials and 75% of Gen Zers report that they have left a job for mental health reasons according to a study by Mind Share Partners, and it’s clear that addressing stigma is critical for both the workforce resilience and economic stability.

What We Can Do About It

The best way to beat stigma? Speak openly and honestly about mental health. Sharing personal experiences is a powerful way to shift attitudes. In recent years, celebrities and sports figures have stepped forward to speak out about their own struggles with mental health issues and it’s made huge strides in normalizing the conversation around mental health and spreading knowledge. Putting a face to mental illness and demonstrating that it can affect anyone, inspires others to open up about their issues.

The post Why We Need To Stop Judging Mental Illness appeared first on Two Wish Stars.