Health and Lifestyle:
“Mental health has a huge impact on every aspect of people’s lives.”
One in five (20%) Australian adults experience a mental illness every year.
About 45 per cent of Australian adults will be affected by mental illness at some time in their life.
Mental health is a state of wellbeing that enables you to deal with what life throws at you.
It is about feeling resilient, enjoying life and being able to connect with others.
Good mental health helps you:
- cope with the normal stresses of life
- be productive both at work and in your private life
- relate well to other people
- contribute to your community.
Healthy food makes you feel good. Healthy eating improves your mental health
It is important for everyone to eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and keep an eye on their intake of alcohol and caffeine. For people with mental health challenges, this is even more important because:
- eating and drinking healthily may improve some of the symptoms of mental health disorders
- unhealthy eating and drinking habits may make symptoms worse
- some foods, caffeine and alcohol can interact with the medicines used to treat mental health disorders
There are some simple guidelines we can all follow to make it easy to have a balanced diet and nutritious and healthy food.
“Exercise stimulates brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious.”
Everyone benefits from exercise, regardless of age, gender or physical ability. Exercise and physical activity helps you stay physically and mentally healthy – the more active you are, the more you benefit.
Being active regularly can:
- reduce the risk of, or help manage, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- maintain or improve blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels
- reduce the risk of some cancers
- prevent unhealthy weight gain and help with weight loss
- maintain strong muscles and bones
- create opportunities for socialising and meeting new people
- help develop and maintain physical and mental wellbeing
There is a broad range of services offering 24/7 365 day a year online and telephone counselling and help. Click/tap the link above to view