One of the most important topics of the day is mental health around the globe. It may surprise you to learn that mental health reports are increasing not only in the UK, but also around the globe.
The World Health Organization, other global medical researchers, and psychology professionals around the world are taking the topic of mental health seriously as reports are flooding in. According to popular resources like the BBC, at least one in every six people in the UK will experience mental health issues this year.
Global mental health statistics
According to the World Health Organization, over 260 million people suffer from depression worldwide. This is a staggering number. When combined with the other forms of mental illness and mental health disorders, the numbers are even higher.
The numbers indicate that almost one in every four people worldwide is suffering from a mental health disorder. Mental health disorders are characterised by their negative and debilitating effects on our quality of life.
Common mental health disorders worldwide are depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder. More severe disorders like schizophrenia and major depressive disorder are less common. The World Health Organization states severe mental disorders like schizophrenia are present in upwards of 15 million people worldwide.
So how do you take better care of your mental health? The following are examples of how to take charge of your mental health.
Spend time with nature
As many of us spend countless hours crammed inside at tiny desks at home or school, it comes as no surprise that getting out in nature can provide an almost instant mental health boost.
Spending time in nature can provide a natural mental health boost. Taking a few minutes to breathe in fresh air, take a brisk walk, or just stretch your legs can provide relief and a reduction in anxiety and stress symptoms.
Seek therapy
Mental health issues are taking their toll worldwide. As a result, leading mental health providers are stepping up to provide mental health services. There are now affordable and low-cost therapy options available in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. Leading therapy providers are making low-cost therapy options online. BetterHelp and Talkspace are examples of two leading therapy platforms that make it possible for people to chat with licensed mental health professionals online 24-hours a day.
Exercise
Exercise and getting out in nature go hand-in-hand. Both methods are natural forms of therapy for mental health stress relief. Worldwide, studies have shown that taking part in regular exercise like cycling, walking, jogging, or swimming can have a significant effect on mental health symptoms. Experts say that anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns are reduced by the effects of exercise.
Final thoughts
Now that you have an idea of how you can start taking better care of your mental health, will you incorporate these changes into your life? If the answer is yes, get started by visiting your primary care provider for a full medical workup. Your provider can give you general health advice and rule out any existing medical or mental health issues.
Marie Miguel is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.
