SPONSORED CONTENT Shifting Our Perspective on Mental Health If you're like most people, you rely on your car to get ds, and do all store, drop off the day-to-day things that need to happen between Point A and Point B. To ensure our car is dependable and runs smoothly, we know that each component, even the hidden computer system, should be in good working order. The human body is no different; we break a bone, we see an orthopedic doctor; we feel sick, we see a primary care physician. But what do we do when our "computer," our mental health, breaks down? you to thé grocery and physical challenges a person is facing and are able to be a guide for "Historically, mental health has been individuals of any age, helping them separate from physical health," said navigate through tough times. People Janet Denison, chief clinical officer at not only benefit in the short term, but also gain insights, perspectives and "But our minds and the way we think valuable life skills for the long run. For many people, nothing. Northwestern Mental Health Center. is essential to how we feel. That is why mental health should never be These are skills we didn't learn overlooked and should always be in- growing up. Skills that no one taught us in school, but it's these lessons cluded in our total health picture." in coping that are perhaps the most critical life skills most of us missed The Total Health Picture When we experience an injury or are out on. feeling ill, it's typically obvious we need to seek professional help. When it comes to struggling men- tally, however, the symptoms may be more subtle at first and it's hard to see our "computer system" being come more optimistic, energized and compromised. But that doesn't make productive, People also appreciate these symptoms any less important to what they have, are easier to get along address. when "Mental health is part of your total well-being and when you're in good all-around health you generally enjoy life more," Denison said. "You be- with, and and altrueraly more generous relaxed because their emotions are Their bodies are more As people struggle with mental is- sues, it takes them more energy to get more stable." through their days. They may have difficülty concentrating, relaxing or feeling joy and satisfaction. Like a car with a broken computer system, when our mental health isn't well, we can control; our environment and our simply cannot function at full capac- everyday choices. This is good news ity. Feelings of being overwhelmed, anxiety in and even our physical well-being s affected by chronic pain, o issues and headaches. I left unchecked, these symptoms of a deeper mental issue can become more A healthy diet serious. Part of our overall health comes from our genes, but there is a good por- tion of it that comes from what we because that means there are many or depression begin to settle ways we can maximize our mental and emotional health every day. Some examples include: Being outdoors Cultivating spirituality Keeping a supportive network of "As with physical health, we all have · Defining your purpose mental health strengths and mental health needs," Denison said. "Mental people health challenges can be triggered by the loss of a loved one, famly strug- · Minimizing or eliminating alcohol gles or financial issues; the reasons are varied and common. who care about you Maintaining a healthy weight Moderate exercise Meditation In fact, the triggers for mental health Practicing gratefulness and grace by issues are so common researchers believe nearly every one of us will experience a mentál health crisis or challenge at some point in our lives. forgiving yourself and others Where to get help Individuals interested in talking with someone about their mental But the issue isn't when we will ex- health can call Northwestern Mental perience these challenges, but rather Health Center's caring team at 218- recognizing when we need help to navigate through them. 281-3940. They'll ask a few clarify- ing questions and then schedule an appointment with the right provider, Many people, when faced with men- either virtually or in-person. tal struggles, think they can power through. In some scenarios that a proach may work with a good night's care provider, who can make refer- sleep or talking to a friend. But when rals and recommendations based on the issue is deeper, just likke run- ning on an injured ankle, powering through often causes more damage. People can also discuss their mental health concerms with their primary needs. "There will always be losses and challenges we face and when these happen, it truly is okay to not be okay." Denison said. "Because you're assistance when you need support not alone." In our lives we may own many vehi- cles, but in this lifetime we will only own one body. It's important to take care of every component of it. Cele- brate what works well and seek out to feel better. Because mental health is just as important as our physical well-being. In fact, it is part of overall health and wellness. Getting the Right Help We live in a time where there are professionals who specialize in ireating every type of mental health If you are feeling distressed, anxious, or concern, from depression and PTSD to bipolar and eating disorders. They crisis, please call our 24/7 Support & Crisis understand the chemical, emotional you are experiencing a mental health Helpline at 1-800-282-5005. SPONSORED CONTENT Shifting Our Perspective on Mental Health If you're like most people, you rely on your car to get ds, and do all store, drop off the day-to-day things that need to happen between Point A and Point B. To ensure our car is dependable and runs smoothly, we know that each component, even the hidden computer system, should be in good working order. The human body is no different; we break a bone, we see an orthopedic doctor; we feel sick, we see a primary care physician. But what do we do when our "computer," our mental health, breaks down? you to thé grocery and physical challenges a person is facing and are able to be a guide for "Historically, mental health has been individuals of any age, helping them separate from physical health," said navigate through tough times. People Janet Denison, chief clinical officer at not only benefit in the short term, but also gain insights, perspectives and "But our minds and the way we think valuable life skills for the long run. For many people, nothing. Northwestern Mental Health Center. is essential to how we feel. That is why mental health should never be These are skills we didn't learn overlooked and should always be in- growing up. Skills that no one taught us in school, but it's these lessons cluded in our total health picture." in coping that are perhaps the most critical life skills most of us missed The Total Health Picture When we experience an injury or are out on. feeling ill, it's typically obvious we need to seek professional help. When it comes to struggling men- tally, however, the symptoms may be more subtle at first and it's hard to see our "computer system" being come more optimistic, energized and compromised. But that doesn't make productive, People also appreciate these symptoms any less important to what they have, are easier to get along address. when "Mental health is part of your total well-being and when you're in good all-around health you generally enjoy life more," Denison said. "You be- with, and and altrueraly more generous relaxed because their emotions are Their bodies are more As people struggle with mental is- sues, it takes them more energy to get more stable." through their days. They may have difficülty concentrating, relaxing or feeling joy and satisfaction. Like a car with a broken computer system, when our mental health isn't well, we can control; our environment and our simply cannot function at full capac- everyday choices. This is good news ity. Feelings of being overwhelmed, anxiety in and even our physical well-being s affected by chronic pain, o issues and headaches. I left unchecked, these symptoms of a deeper mental issue can become more A healthy diet serious. Part of our overall health comes from our genes, but there is a good por- tion of it that comes from what we because that means there are many or depression begin to settle ways we can maximize our mental and emotional health every day. Some examples include: Being outdoors Cultivating spirituality Keeping a supportive network of "As with physical health, we all have · Defining your purpose mental health strengths and mental health needs," Denison said. "Mental people health challenges can be triggered by the loss of a loved one, famly strug- · Minimizing or eliminating alcohol gles or financial issues; the reasons are varied and common. who care about you Maintaining a healthy weight Moderate exercise Meditation In fact, the triggers for mental health Practicing gratefulness and grace by issues are so common researchers believe nearly every one of us will experience a mentál health crisis or challenge at some point in our lives. forgiving yourself and others Where to get help Individuals interested in talking with someone about their mental But the issue isn't when we will ex- health can call Northwestern Mental perience these challenges, but rather Health Center's caring team at 218- recognizing when we need help to navigate through them. 281-3940. They'll ask a few clarify- ing questions and then schedule an appointment with the right provider, Many people, when faced with men- either virtually or in-person. tal struggles, think they can power through. In some scenarios that a proach may work with a good night's care provider, who can make refer- sleep or talking to a friend. But when rals and recommendations based on the issue is deeper, just likke run- ning on an injured ankle, powering through often causes more damage. People can also discuss their mental health concerms with their primary needs. "There will always be losses and challenges we face and when these happen, it truly is okay to not be okay." Denison said. "Because you're assistance when you need support not alone." In our lives we may own many vehi- cles, but in this lifetime we will only own one body. It's important to take care of every component of it. Cele- brate what works well and seek out to feel better. Because mental health is just as important as our physical well-being. In fact, it is part of overall health and wellness. Getting the Right Help We live in a time where there are professionals who specialize in ireating every type of mental health If you are feeling distressed, anxious, or concern, from depression and PTSD to bipolar and eating disorders. They crisis, please call our 24/7 Support & Crisis understand the chemical, emotional you are experiencing a mental health Helpline at 1-800-282-5005.