Mental Well-Being is as important as Physical Well-Being

Mental well-being is often put on the back burner when talking about health. A big reason for this is because of the shame felt by those who are experiencing mental illness. I know this first hand because my mother struggled for many years to hide hers. Over the many years after her diagnosis,  I came to understand how difficult it is for a person to reach a state of acceptance which opens the door to seeking help.

The first step to fix something is to admit that something is wrong. Far too often when we're asked "how are you doing" people will almost automatically say "OK". We have been so condition to just respond like a rehearsed script, even when we're really not OK. 

If you had a fall and injured your leg, you wouldn't think twice about going to a doctor to make sure nothing is broken. Why would you neglect your emotional well being, telling yourself you just have to deal with it or even worse ignore it? Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and it's "OK to say you're not OK.

Know that you are not alone. According to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Blog on Mental Health Statistics for 2024, 57.8 million adults live with some form of mental illness. We have to be willing to have open conversations in spaces that foster acceptance and positivity. Read more about "Overcoming the stigma of mental illness".

If you need someone to talk to...there is 24/7 help. Dial 988 Lifeline. Begin the process of healing. 

TECHNOLOGY CAN NEVER REPLACE YOUR PERSONAL INVESTMENT IN WELLNESS

With each passing year, the science of medicine has new breakthroughs, resulting in the improvement of the diagnoses, treatment and prevention of disease. As I was doing research, I was surprised to learn the 1st successful kidney transplant occurred in the year I was born, 1954, some 70 years ago. Sadly, still today, kidney disease for many, can lead to the lifelong need for dialyses or a transplant.

Although technology has made great strides that has lead to the increase of life expectancy as well as the discovery of better treatments and cures for diseases, the prevalence of chronic diseases continues to be a personal and financial burden. Read more ("The Burden of Chronic Disease").

No matter how many milestones there has been in medical technology, one’s personal investment is pivotal for overall wellness achievements.So you ask, what is wellness? Wellness is the intentional practice of habits  which results in optimum health. Consistent actions moves you from living a life where you only survive to one where you can thrive (”Thriving-Alive and Thriving”). Consider this, the change begins with you…the ball is in your court…what’s your next move?

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

 

 

When I became a full-time caregiver for my mom, my life went from focusing on the now  to one of chaos where I was constantly living for the future. It seemed like I was always planning for the next. What medication did I need for the next two-week medication box fill, what supplies did I need to order, what food did I need to order and prepare, etc.  My mind never seemed to shut off, even when I would lay down to try and sleep.

Sadly, I like many people, was focused on where I had been or where I may be going.  I was unaware that the past and the future exist only as concepts in one’s mind and this was robbing me of my inner peace and serenity.

Learning to rest in the peace and simplicity of the present moment is an antidote to the stresses of life and a balm to heal the soul. Working with a therapist I was able to incorporate mindfulness into my every life:

1.   1.  Practice deep breathing

2.   2.  Take at least 10 minutes to focus on doing something for myself

3.   3.  Becoming aware of the beauty of nature that surrounds me.

Read more “How Caregivers Benefit From Mindfullness” and be sure to share what you have found to be helpful for you.

“Living in the moment means living your life consciously, deeply aware that each breath is a gift.” — Oprah Winfrey

WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN

Following almost three years of being the caregiver for my mother, I am working my way back to hopefully provide healthful content on my blog. Along with health pertinent information, I hope to also interject my caregiver journey. No one can imagine what full time caregiving is like until you have walked the path. I am hoping my sharing some of my

 journey will provide assistance to someone embarking on that path

 I will be updating links within the month so my content will be current.

LABELS, LABELS, LABELS

 Do you have a friend or relative that you consider to be a neat freak, or  one who constantly changes their mind.  In some instances we can be quick to view that person as one who has a mental health disorder? In a world where there is always a stigma surrounding mental health, this practice can be very harmful. Read why we need to Be Careful About Labeling