Understanding How Mental Health Impacts Your Well-Being

Many individuals struggle with mental and behavioral health concerns such as depression, anxiety, difficulty facing life transitions, or with relationship or parenting issues.  According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults experiences mental illness, equating to millions of adults each year. Studies have shown that people with depression have a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, proving that mental health doesn’t affect just the mind – it can greatly impact someone’s overall health and well-being.

In the pursuit of overall well-being, it’s crucial not to overlook the health of our minds. Mental health plays a significant role in our quality of life, and investing time and effort into nurturing it can lead to profound benefits. Mental health is integral to our overall health and impacts how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. Prioritizing mental health can enhance resilience, improve relationships, and contribute to better physical health outcomes. Common mental health concerns include stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship issues, among others. Insurance Agent, Katie Sutton, offers tips for prioritizing mental health and how to utilize your resources to maintain overall wellness.

**If you are facing a mental health crisis,
please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

• Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as mindfulness meditation, exercise, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies and interests.
• Maintain Social Connections: Foster supportive relationships with friends, family, and community members. Regular social interaction can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Set Boundaries: Establish healthy boundaries in personal and professional relationships to protect your mental and emotional well-being.
• Seek Balance: Strive for a balanced lifestyle that includes adequate rest, nutrition, physical activity, work, and leisure activities.
• Practice Stress Management Techniques: Learn and utilize stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or journaling to cope with stress effectively.

• Counseling, also known as therapy or psychotherapy, provides a safe and confidential space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with a trained professional.
• Counselors can help individuals navigate life transitions, cope with challenges, improve communication skills, and develop strategies for managing mental health concerns.
• Seeing a counselor regularly can provide ongoing support, promote self-awareness, and foster personal growth and resilience.

• Many health insurance plans offer coverage for mental health services, including counseling or therapy sessions.
• Review your health insurance plan with a licensed agent to understand your mental health benefits, including coverage for counseling services, copayments, deductibles, and any limitations or restrictions.
• Utilize in-network providers to maximize your insurance benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
• Take advantage of teletherapy options, which may be covered by your insurance plan, offering convenient and accessible mental health support from the comfort of your home.

Prioritizing mental health is essential for overall wellness and resilience. By implementing strategies for mental health wellness and utilizing your health insurance benefits to see a counselor, you can take proactive steps toward nurturing your mental well-being. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and investing in your mental health is an investment in your future happiness and fulfillment. If you need help understanding what’s covered in your health insurance or Medicare plans, reach out to me, I’m always happy to help. Cheers to your health and well-being!

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When you are facing life’s challenges and don’t know where to turn, St. John’s United is here for you. We offer in-person counseling services in Billings and Missoula or via secure telehealth technology. All counseling services are provided in a welcoming, confidential environment. Our counselors help build resilience and facilitate growth so you can live a fuller, more productive life using the skills you’ve learned in counseling. Our licensed therapists work with anyone in need, regardless of religious affiliation, serving people of all ages. To learn more, please visit us online or call one of our offices.

**If you are in a crisis, please call 911
or go to the nearest emergency department.

406-655-5425  – Billings office
8:00 am – 5:00 pm • M. – F.

406-549-0147 – Missoula office
8:00 am – 5:00 pm • M. – F.

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