May is Mental Health Month and The New Era has agreed to include a weekly message submitted by local mental health advocates who are concerned about the effects of the past year on local residents. Here is this week’s installment:
Have you noticed that your eating habits have changed recently; either you are eating much less or more than usual as you try to handle the stresses of everyday life.
Proper diet and eating habits can help reduce stress and keep you mentally and physically healthy.
Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol. Don’t overeat; avoid using food as a way to cope with stress.
Some foods are especially good to help your body manage stress, e.g. avocados, bananas, tea, whole grains, fatty fish, carrots, nuts and yogurt all are thought to help manage stress.
The Linn County Mental Health Advisory Board encourages everyone to remember that May is Mental Health Month and that there is no health without mental health.
If you have serious concerns about your mental health, seek the care of a licensed counselor or therapist; the phone number for the Linn County Mental Health is (541) 967-3866 or 1-800-304-7468. Resources are also available in Sweet Home at (541) 367-3888 or 1-800-920-7571, and in Lebanon at (541) 451-5932 or 1-888-451-2631 and.
Or visit http://www.linncountyhealth.org/mh for more information.
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek help immediately: the phone number for the Linn County Mental Health Crisis team is (541) 967-3866 or 1-800-304-7468. Or dial 911 for emergency services.