On April 13th, 1970, the Apollo 13 astronauts faced a critical moment when their oxygen tanks failed, prompting the famous radio message from John Swigert, “Houston, we’ve got a problem.” Similarly, today we must acknowledge the pressing issue of mental health challenges here on Earth.
While there may be light-hearted anecdotes about quirky behaviors during stressful times, it’s crucial to remember that mental illness is a serious matter that affects millions of individuals.
In the United States alone, nearly 60 million people grapple with various forms of mental health conditions, ranging from mild to severe disorders like depression, anxiety, Attention-Deficit Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, eating disorders, addiction, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other personality disorders.
Particularly alarming is the highest rate of mental health issues among young adults aged 18-25, highlighting the importance of addressing this significant aspect of our future well-being.
This is our future. This is our oxygen.
Despite the alarming statistics, there is hope for a holistic approach to mental wellness that goes beyond medication. Prominent psychiatrists like Kelly Brogan are leading a movement towards natural, self-care-focused treatments that have shown success in treating mental illnesses without relying on prescription drugs. By prioritizing healthy habits such as avoiding toxic substances, nutritious eating, ample rest, essential supplements, psychotherapy, and regular exercise, individuals can proactively support their mental health.
In cultivating good mental health, there are three key practices that mentally resilient individuals consistently embody:
#1 Self-Care:
Recognizing the vital importance of caring for the body and mind, mentally healthy individuals prioritize self-care. Avoiding toxic substances like alcohol, drugs, processed foods, and even many prescription drugs can help the brain maintain balance. Sufficient rest and engaging in enjoyable activities contribute to maintaining a balanced mind. Exercise has been proven to produce endorphins and help people to stay emotionally elevated.
#2 Balanced Relationships:
Navigating the complexities of relationships requires a delicate balance of give and take. A relationship can’t be built on a one-way street. Nor can they endure abuse.
Mentally healthy individuals understand the importance of mutual respect, honest communication, and setting boundaries within relationships. Building relationships based on trust, safety, and compromise fosters emotional well-being and relationship longevity.
#3 Confronting Fears:
Acknowledging and addressing fears is a crucial step towards mental wellness. Many individuals remain in negative patterns due to fear of change, being alone, or uncertainty. Many people fear failure, others success.
Embracing challenges, practicing vulnerability, and seeking growth opportunities help individuals develop resilience and overcome mental hurdles. This not only supports a successful future but builds confidence and good self-esteem.
While perfection is not the goal, building self-confidence, resilience, and a sense of fulfillment through self-care, healthy relationships, and facing fears can lead to ongoing personal success.
Your brain is the command center for your entire physical and emotional well-being.
Just as the astronauts of Apollo 13 navigated a crisis with resilience and determination, our collective future relies on our commitment to nurturing good mental health practices. By prioritizing mental wellness and addressing challenges with courage and compassion, we can pave the way for a healthier and happier future for ourselves and those around us.”
It all boils down to this: self-love. When you love yourself, you nurture your body and mind as intended. Mental health is often the result of making a loving choice and placing needs over wants. Good self-care is the oxygen that your brain needs most. Let’s not let that brain power drain away… You are too important for that.
JOIN OUR MOVEMENT TO SAVE MILLIONS OF LIVES FROM ADDICTION.
Donna Marks is an educator, licensed psychotherapist, and addictions counselor in Palm Beach, Florida. She has worked with over 6,000 clients. Donna’s struggle with addiction brought her to a worldwide search for healing. She became licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in 1987. In 1989, she earned a Doctorate Degree in Adult Education, then became Certified in Addictions, Gestalt Therapy, Psychoanalysis, Hypnosis, and Sex Therapy. Donna developed an award-winning addiction training program at Palm Beach Community College. She co-owns an outpatient treatment program and serves as a consultant to treatment centers. For 36 years, she has taught A Course in Miracles.
Donna is the author of three books: the multi-award-winning title Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Cure, and Learn, Grow, Forgive: A Path to Spiritual Success, The Healing Moment: Seven Paths to Turn Messes into Miracles of Love, and her latest fiction, Fortis & Sapiente – A Tale of Two Lovers Who Successfully Navigate the Murky Waters of Love. Donna is a public speaker and has shared her methods with millions of listeners on podcasts and radio shows.
Sign up for the mailing list
You will receive the latest articles, meditation tracks, inspirational content and much more
