Mental Health Awareness Month – The Correlation Between Mental Health and Addiction

Mental Health Awareness Month:

Mental Health Awareness Month is observed in May each year to raise awareness of the importance of mental wellbeing, educate people about available resources, and advocate for better care. Founded by Mental Health America in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month aims to promote mental health and wellbeing as a critical part of whole person health, and support early identification and prevention through the provision of information, policy and advocacy, youth programs and fundraising.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse:

As reported by the National Bureau of Economic Research “there is a definite connection between mental illness and the use of addictive substances. Individuals with an existing mental illness consume roughly 38 percent of all alcohol, 44 percent of all cocaine, and 40 percent of all cigarettes.”

Those who are struggling with emotional difficulties or trauma may turn to drugs or alcohol as a method of coping with these problems. Likewise, someone who is abusing drugs or alcohol may develop or have mental distress intensified.

According to a survey by Mental Health America “15.35% of adults had a substance use disorder in the past year. Of them, 93.5% did not receive any form of treatment. Additionally, 6.34% of youth in the U.S. reported a substance use disorder in the past year. That is equivalent to over 1.5 million youth in the U.S. who meet the criteria for an illicit drug or alcohol use disorder.”

Thus, there is a desperate need for effective solutions and resources for those struggling with addiction.

Natural Ways to Improve Mental Health:

There are simple things that anyone can do to improve mental wellbeing and reduce the risk of falling into substance abuse or relapsing while in recovery. Here are some tips:

Exercising and Staying Active – Keeping your body in good shape can help your overall health including your mood. Exercise releases hormones which can reduce stress as well as get blood, oxygen and other nutrients circulating in your system. Participating in sports and team games also promotes interaction with other people and can develop bonds.

Getting Sufficient Sleep – Getting a good night's sleep is important to one’s wellbeing as it allows the body to rest and repair itself. Having a bad sleep can make it much harder to concentrate and cope with situations and problems in life. One should try to get between 7 and 9 hours of quality sleep per night. Doing things like avoiding caffeine, TV and mobile screens before bed, keeping a regular sleep schedule and taking some time to relax before bed can increase your chances of getting a good night’s rest.

Eating Healthy – The kinds of food and drinks that we consume can have a dramatic impact on our mood and energy levels. Having too much sugar, coffee, tea and energy drinks can leave one feeling exhausted, sluggish or jittery in the long run. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and good fats delivers the essential nutrients our body needs to function and can help one’s wellbeing.

Engaging in Positive Activities – Participating in constructive and enjoyable activities can help to take your mind off unwanted thoughts or stresses. Simple things like reading a good book, playing cards, board games and puzzles, going out to dinner with friends, enrolling in dancing classes and gardening can keep one active and productive. Things like volunteering at a local charity or helping a friend or family member out on a project can give one a sense of purpose. Planning activities that you enjoy or fun getaways can give you a sense of hope and something to look forward to, thus increasing your mental outlook.

Trying to Manage Finances Wisely – Money can be a big source of stress, pressure or embarrassment. Seek help if you are having trouble keeping up with debts or expenses. Some charities may be able to help relieve the burden or offer advice on money and spending. Planning how you spend your money and researching better prices could help your overall financial control and limit waste and overspending.

Singing or Playing Music – Singing, playing an instrument or listening to music can help boost your mood – especially upbeat, relaxing and positive music.

Talking to Someone You Trust – Opening up to someone about your problems or just having someone to talk to can sometimes make you feel better. It doesn’t usually help to bottle up how one is feeling. Instead, by talking to someone who you know and trust, it could not only help you feel relief but may even strengthen your relationship with them and encourage interaction. They may have advice or suggestions to help you deal with whatever is on your mind.

Substance Abuse Treatment:

For those suffering from addiction, the effects can be devastating and traumatic not only to self but to friends and family as well.

Narconon Arrowhead is a drug-free addiction treatment center 2 hours east of Oklahoma City and 2 hours north of the Texas border. Located in Arrowhead State Park, it offers a scenic and distraction-free environment, perfect for recovery.

Narconon has 59 years of experience saving lives from addiction and, with its comprehensive program, addresses both mind and body for lasting success.

For more information call Narconon Arrowhead today or request a free brochure here.