Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Overview of Mental Health Challenges

2. Building Social Support: Enhancing Relationships and Connections

3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Impact on Mental Well-being

4. Identifying Thought Patterns: Techniques for Positive Change

5. Seeking Professional Help: When and How to Seek Help

Your Guide to Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention

Mental health conditions are widespread, affecting people from all walks of life. Unfortunately, most people are not prepared to cope with these issues. Stressful life experiences can spiral into insurmountable hurdles and, at times, it can feel like there is no way out.

 People who are vulnerable to mental illness or suicidal ideations can take steps to deal with the stressors of life, allowing for greater resilience and better mental well-being. Whether you want to be proactive against mental illness or you’re struggling with challenges of your own, check out the following tips courtesy of Meridian Counseling.

 Growing Your Social Support System

 Social support is one of the most important elements of good psychological health. Find ways to strengthen personal relationships and build your support system.

• A sense of belonging is incredibly important for our well-being. Try joining a local club or online group where you can connect with others.

• Don’t wait for people to reach out. You may have to make the first move to start a new friendship.

• Thanks to technology, you can connect with people all over the world. Online connections can become lifelong friends!

 Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices

 The lifestyle choices we make have an indisputable effect on our mental health. Choose activities and behaviors that support your well-being and improve the direction of your life.

• Are you unintentionally sabotaging your sleep? Learn how daytime habits—and even your bedroom environment—can zap your sleep quality.

• Supplying your body with nutritious food is another great way to build a healthy brain.

• Engaging in regular exercise is one of the best things you can do to manage clinical depression.

 Identifying Thought Patterns

How we think has a significant impact on how we perceive the world and respond to life experiences. As a result, changing your thought patterns could change how you feel.

• Learn how to identify your negative thought patterns.

• Try to be mindful of your thoughts and feelings so you can accept and transform them.

• Religion and spirituality can also provide relief to people struggling with mental health issues. Look for a greater meaning in life—whatever that means to you!

 Seeking Mental Health Help

 Don’t wait to seek help until your life becomes unmanageable. Talk to a therapist about any mental health concerns you’re currently facing so you can start healing today. 

• Therapy sessions through Meridian Counseling can help you identify what it is you want for your life, and then clear the obstacles necessary to meet your goals.

• While depression can be extremely hard to overcome on your own, it is highly treatable with the right professional help.

• Online teletherapy is a great option for people seeking therapy for the first time. Just make sure your home internet is up to speed!

• Keep in mind that there are many different types of therapy. You may have to explore a few options before you find what works best for you.

 Need help? No one should have to face mental illness alone. There are many support groups, services, and evidence-based treatments out there that will make it easier for you to get through this.

To take transformative steps to improve your mental health, schedule a session with Meridian Counseling.

*** Written by Sara Bailey for Meridian Counseling. After losing her husband Greg, Sara Bailey created TheWidow.net in the hopes of sharing her journey as a single parent amidst grief and providing insight and hope to those who experience loss