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According to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, a national survey, 58 percent of Americans reported struggling in their lives at the end of 2008, an increase of more than 22 million Americans who reported struggling earlier in the year. With increasing economic challenges piled on to the stress of work and family demands, that’s not surprising.
But you can manage stress and challenges by taking actions to preserve and strengthen mental health and increase well being; here are 10 ways to do it:
1. Connect with others. Research suggests that people who feel connected are happier and healthier–and may even live longer.
2. Stay positive. People who regularly focus on the positives in their lives are less upset by painful events.
3. Get physically active. Exercise can help prevent heart disease, relieve insomnia and reduce anxiety and depression.
4. Help others. Research has proven that those who consistently help other people experience less depression, greater calm and fewer pains.
5. Get enough rest. People who don’t get enough sleep face a number of possible risks, including weight gain, decreased memory, impaired driving and heart problems.
6. Create joy and satisfaction. Positive emotions can boost your ability to bounce back from stress.
7. Eat well. Eating healthy food can boost your energy, lower the risk of developing certain diseases and influence your mood.
8. Take care of your spirit. People who have strong spiritual lives may be healthier and live longer. Spirituality seems to cut the stress that can contribute to disease.
9. Deal better with hard times. People coping with stress feel less depressed after problem-solving.
10. Get professional help if you need it. More than 80 percent of people who are treated for depression improve.
For more details, go to Mental Health America’s special website, www.liveyourlifewell.org.
Source:
Mental Health America
46887 07/2009
The information provided is intended to help you make informed decisions. The Genworth Financial companies do not provide medical information, advice or recommendations. Consult your physician before making major changes in your lifestyle or health care regimen. Please note that Wellness partners, their products, services, and offers may change over time.
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