Bringing Mental Health Out of the Shadows
May 25, 2022
If you injure your back, you don’t think twice about going to a doctor for help. It’s the same if you have a toothache, develop high blood pressure or need a knee replacement. Unfortunately, though, many people are hesitant to seek treatment when they experience a mental health issue like depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, obsessive/compulsive urges or thoughts of suicide.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and one of the main purposes of this observation is to eliminate the stigma of mental health treatment. It’s important to remember that your brain is an organ, just like your heart, lungs and kidneys. And, just like those organs, the brain can sometimes get out of balance and require medical attention. No one should never feel scared or embarrassed about speaking with a healthcare professional about any mental health concerns they may have.
Take Steps to Promote Good Mental Health
Just as it is important to get regular exercise and yearly physicals, taking care of mental health is vital for an overall safe and healthy life. Here are a few things you can do:
Start with you. Take a moment right now to assess your own mental health. The past two-plus years have been extremely difficult for a lot of people. Is there an area of your own mental health that you need to address?
Check in with family members and friends. People often hesitate to bring up mental health issues but may open up to you if you ask how they’re doing. Even if their issues aren’t severe enough to see a doctor, you can provide a listening ear, a warm hug or a shoulder to cry on.
Help to break the stigma. Don’t be afraid to talk about the subject of mental health. The more we talk about it, the less power it has to create a prison of fear and shame for people who need help!
Be prepared. Get familiar with online mental health resources so you’ll be ready to help yourself or a loved one. Here are some websites to start with:
CoolSys Is Here for You!
If you’re a CoolSys employee, you don’t have to look any further than our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to find support for mental health issues and concerns. Cigna Behavioral Health, our EAP provider, offers dozens of mental health resources — including articles, audio and video education, FAQs, online seminars and more. You may also call 800-538-3543 for assistance.
In your hectic days of work and other responsibilities, please be sure to make time to take care of yourself and to check in with your loved ones.