Mental Health
Intended as a Guide.
CONTENTS:
- Early Warning Signs of Mental health Illnesses
- How to deal with Anxiety
- Benefits from Exercising
MENTAL HEALTH
AWARENESS
Latinos en Sydney!! is a non-government organisation and the information provided in this document is a guide. We are not health professionals, we are here to provide individuals with the best tools and resources available to maintain a healthy headspace. We are currently living in a PANDEMIC, which is an unusual situation to be living. It is temporarily disrupting our way of life It can be an even rougher time for Mental Health, due to the unique conditions that are associated such as restrictions in place from the government. We have attached some helpful tips and exercises to keep your mind healthy and strong, as well as attached documents from the government, organisations and any sources we believe may be able to assist you. All these documents have been attached for your convenience, and all can be found on their corresponding websites. As stated this is a guide and will be updated when there is more availability.
It is Vital to look after your Mental Health
MENTAL HEALTH ILLNESSES
EARLY WARNING SIGNS
Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing that leads to poor performance, hyperactivity. A person may seem constantly distracted or uninterested in the activity presented to them.
Substance Abuse
Signs of substance abuse, alcoholism, and/or drug addiction can also be related to mental health problems and issues.
Drastic weight changes
Signs of mental illnesses include: overeating, demonstrating a loss of appetite, vomiting, or using laxatives.
Intense Emotions
Constant feelings of overwhelming fear of worry. A constant state of anxiety that does not have a clear, discernible source.
Mood changes
Feelings of sadness or withdrawal, ongoing anger or irritability, severe mood swings, isolation, avoiding activities that were previously enjoyed.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms of mental illness that some people experience are: chronic headaches, stomachaches, other types of aches.
Physical Harm
Self-injurious behaviour such as cutting, giving away cherished possessions, reckless behaviour that could lead to injury very easily, thoughts or talks of suicide.
Behaviour changes
Drastic changes in behaviour including acting up, fighting, use of weapons, isolation, poor sleeping patterns, threats and harm to others or oneself.
MENTAL HEALTH
HOW TO DEAL WITH ANXIETY
Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn’t possible, be proud of however close you get.
Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
Is it work, family, school, the pandemic, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
Alcohol and caffeine can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks. Instead, drink water.
Do not skip any meals and always keep healthy, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest. It’s important to get 8 hours of sleep per night.
Exercising can help you feel good and maintain your health.
Inhale and exhale slowly throughout the day when you are feeling stressed.
Slowly count to 10 and repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress. There are multiple community groups including this one.
Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from problems helps clear your head.
Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Get help professionally. If you are struggling with stress and anxiety in your life, consider taking a mental health consultation with your GP they can give you professional advise.
MENTAL HEALTH
BENEFITS FROM EXERCISING
Reduces Mental Fatigue
With so much screen technology shoved in our faces, our brains rarely has time to switch of and settle which is exactly what they tend to do when we head outdoors.
Fights Depression & Anxiety
Spending time outdoors and in nature has shown to effectively reduce the risk of becoming depressed and also reduces the symptoms of depression for those spreading suffering from the illness.
Reduces Stress & Mood Elevation
Spending 20-30 mins outdoors can significantly reduce cortisol levels and lower your stress levels. It can offer stress relief and mood improvement.
Runners High
A physiological feel-good feeling occurring as a result from our bodies releasing endorphins during exercises, such as walking or cycling.
Healthy Well Being
Exercise is known to reduce weight and cholesterol issues. It also improves an individuals cardiovascular fitness.
Cognitive Functioning
As an individual becomes faster, fitter and stronger, it starts to improve self esteem and confidence. It improves cognitive function, as well as strengthens bones and muscles in young people.
Improved Sleeping
It improves sleeping and reduces tiredness that can increase natural alertness.
We have a monthly online show that features a mental health section. Season 2 welcomed the addition of Carlos Camacho, a bilingual psychologist serving the community. Our online show can be viewed here.