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Mental Health

What is Mental Health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. Mental health is important at all stages of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

To learn more about what is mental health, click here!

Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

Mental health is influenced by a mix of biological, environmental, and genetic factors. Genetics can increase susceptibility to conditions like depression and anxiety, while imbalances in brain chemistry also play a role. Physical health and chronic illnesses can affect mental well-being. Life experiences such as trauma and stress contribute significantly, along with adverse childhood experiences. Family history can indicate genetic predisposition and environmental influences.

01.

Get Professional Health if Needed

Seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist, can provide valuable support. These experts can offer tailored strategies and treatments to address specific mental health concerns

02.

Connect With Others

Social connections are crucial for mental health. Building and nurturing meaningful relationships with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. Social interaction can also boost self-esteem and contribute to a sense of belonging

03.

Try to Stay Positive

Cultivating a positive mindset involves focusing on the good aspects of life, practicing gratitude, and challenging negative thought patterns. Positive thinking can improve mood and resilience in the face of challenges.

04.

Do Physical Activities

Regular physical activity has been shown to have numerous mental health benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It can also reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and boost self-esteem.

05.

Volunteer

Acts of kindness and helping others can boost feelings of fulfillment and happiness. Volunteering or simply being there for someone in need can provide a sense of purpose and improve your own mental well-being.

06.

Get Enough Sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for mental health. Poor sleep can contribute to mood disturbances, anxiety, and cognitive impairments. Establishing healthy sleep habits can significantly improve mental well-being

Services of Hope

Mental health stigma is a significant issue the Latinx community as they may be reluctant to seek mental health services due to factors such as fear of discrimination, concerns about confidentiality, or a belief that mental health problems are a sign of weakness. 

To address these issues, we have partnered with Services of Hope to provide a license bilingual therapist at the Hispanic Center that offers free sessions to those without insurance. It is important to ensure that mental health services are accessible and culturally responsive to the needs of the Latinx community. 

Ana is at the Hispanic Center every Wednesday and Friday from 9am-5pm. If you are interested in booking an appointment with Ana, please contact Alva at 616.246.0570. 

Meet Ana

 

Ana Cruz, LLPC is a Licensed Therapist who provides bilingual therapy for individuals, families, and the elderly who reside in nursing homes. Ana has experience working with clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, anger management, and in home services. She provided therapy for those facing severe mental health crisis at HealthWest as an intern, and served as a volunteer mentor at Insight Pregnancy Services.

Hear from the Mental Health Professionals

Helpful Resources

If You Need Immediate Help
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Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety Test
Depression Test
More Resouces on Mental Health
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