Understanding truths about mental health

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Are you or someone you know having trouble doing the things you like to do or need to do because of how you feel -- like going to school, work or hanging out with friends?

Are you or someone you know having a rough day? Have you or someone you know been feeling down for a while?

Everyone goes through tough times, and no matter how long you've had something on your mind, it's important that you talk to someone about it. The answers to these questions are often affiliated with mental health. Not indicating that someone answering yes to any of the listed questions, has a mental health illness. However, indicating the importance of knowing and understanding truths about mental health.

"Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood (United States Department of Health and Human Science, 2014)."

In 2011, The United States Department of Health and Human Science reports one in five American adults experienced a mental health issue. One in 10 young people experienced a period of major depression, and one in 20 Americans lived with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.

Not sure if you or someone you know is living with mental health problems? Experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviors can be an early warning sign of a problem:

* Eating or sleeping too much or too little.

* Pulling away from people and usual activities.

* Having low or no energy.

* Feeling numb or like nothing matters.

* Having unexplained aches and pains.

* Feeling helpless or hopeless.

* Smoking, drinking or using drugs more than usual.

* Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared.

* Yelling or fighting with family and friends.

* Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships.

* Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head.

* Hearing voices or believing things that are not true.

* Thinking of harming yourself or others.

* Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school (United States Department of Health and Human Science, 2014).

In efforts to educate Putnam County about Mental Illness, Purdue Extension-Putnam County and Mental Health America-Putnam County have partnered to conduct a workshop around mental health on Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. Guest speaker Greg Allen, certified mental health first aid and crisis manager, will educate Putnam County residents on making the best better, through mental health awareness. Regardless of age and/or background, all residents are encouraged to attend.

For more information persons may visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or contact the local Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week's topic or to RSVP for upcoming events.

It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events

Nov. 9 -- 4-H Launch, York Automotive Community Building, 2 p.m.

Nov. 13 -- Mental Health Awareness, York Automotive Community Building, 6 p.m.

Nov. 19 -- Candy Lesson 101, Area 30 Career Center, 9 a.m. (RSVP for event by calling 653-8411).

Jan. 15 -- Enrollment Deadline 2015 County/State Fair 4-H exhibit eligibility.

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