Published: May 13, 2021
Millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Use these tips and resources to improve your mental health.
May marks National Mental Health Month. Keep your mental health in top condition and encourage others to join in too with these simple steps:
- Get your body moving. When you exercise, you release endorphins that trigger positive feelings and increase emotional well-being. Even short walks several times a week are helpful. And, if you are back in the office, ask a co-worker to walk on a break, or better yet, take your meeting mobile with a short walk.
- Surround yourself with supportive people. Your way of thinking is influenced by those around you. Find people who make you feel good about yourself. Look for friends who give you positive energy, not drain you. Connect with people who will listen (and you can be a listener for them), whether friends, family, or faith organizations.
- Practice self-care. Put your needs first and take care of yourself. There are likely others who depend on you, so find time for yourself, so you can be there for others. Do something you enjoy even if for 15 minutes and don’t forget to celebrate small accomplishments!
- Cut out bad habits. Look at your lifestyle. If you see habits that don’t work well for you, come up with a plan to stop them. Eating healthy foods and staying physically active help you both physically and mentally, so incorporate those into your plan.
If you wish to see someone to help with your mental well-being, you don’t need to ask your PCP for a referral. For assistance finding a mental health specialist, and to learn more regarding behavioral (mental) health benefits and coverage information, contact WHA’s Member Services at 888.563.2250 or send a secure message.
Check Resources for Support:
Effective Jan. 1, 2023, WHA’s behavioral health provider is Optum. Please see mywha.org/bh for access to providers and programs. Refer to your 2023 plan documents for details.