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EDITORIAL: Mental Health important to wellness

Fergus Falls Daily Journal - 5/27/2017

May 27--As the summer months roll to the forefront, many people will look to get more active; participating in athletics, swimming, hiking, cycling and taking long walks. Several people worked out most of the winter and spring months in order to be at peak physical condition for all the extracurriculars that they plan to tackle from June to August.

But while many people focus on getting a good tan or toning up for the summer season, many neglect one of the most important health factors in their lives -- mental health. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we at The Daily Journal see the importance of staying in peak mental health.

According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. -- 43.8 million, or 18.5 percent -- experiences mental illness in a given year. This is a large portion of the population that suffers with mental health on a daily basis.

We are fortunate to have several different facilities that provide help for those with mental health issues. Lakeland Mental Health Center and A Place to Belong are just a couple of examples of places that aid in the battle for better mental health in Fergus Falls.

Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being that has been over-stigmatized in the past, so starting the conversation is a crucial aspect to moving forward in treating something that is prominent in the lives of many members of our community.

There are many suggestions on ways to improve mental health including exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting an adequate amount of sleep and joining a group that is supportive.

Steps toward intervention, according to American Mental Wellness Association, include contacting your family doctor or primary physician, attending therapy and keeping going, being proactive and educating yourself on the illness, and developing a safety plan for emergencies. The option of telling your family and friends is completely up to you, but it can provide you with much needed encouragement.

If you are experiencing a mental health problem, you can contact Lakeland Mental Health Center at 218-736-6987 or 1-800-223-4512

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(c)2017 the Fergus Falls Daily Journal (Fergus Falls, Minn.)

Visit the Fergus Falls Daily Journal (Fergus Falls, Minn.) at www.fergusfallsjournal.com

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