Spectrum of Mental Wellness
Processes usually move along a spectrum. Mental health is no different. Our individual mental health changes throughout our life as we develop and experience living in all its variety. We traverse the expanse of mental wellness as we move through the spectrum of mental health, changing as our experiences and coping skills shape us.
Currently, there is a wave of stress that is challenging even the most experienced mental health professionals, as we cope with the enormous changes that we face globally with Covid-19 still on the rise. Without even a chance to prepare for such moments, the required changes to how we behave have also left us with fewer buffers to ease the onslaught. That wave grows in intensity with social and financial stressors, and in many parts of the world, a failure of political leadership. But by recognizing the fluid nature of mental health, we can help mitigate some of the more difficult waves we encounter. Understanding mental health as a spectrum of wellness and illness is a first step towards actively shaping our individual wellbeing and providing support for our loved ones.
Most adults, and sadly more adolescents, live in an almost perpetual state of stress or stimulus overload. Our cultural climate (especially if consumed through social media), and the technology by which we consume it, generate their own levels of stressors. Even before the pandemic, and even if not already stretched by the responsibilities of making a living or supporting others – often experiencing lack of restorative sleep – day to day life has often been overwhelming. We know that we need to follow certain wellness practices to help relieve the pressure, ranging from exercise to meditation, as well as eating a healthy diet, and ensuring restful sleep. Especially in these extreme moments of change, we need to rely on all healthy modes of stress relief and create new modes of human interaction as many have been able to do. But not everyone can find alternative methods as easily. Left unchecked, high levels of stress will move one along the spectrum in the direction of mental illness – towards depression and other physical and emotional conditions. Find a way that works for you to channel that stress into an activity that brings you pleasure to maintain a more balanced mental wellness.
Traumatic life experiences that are left unresolved can also quickly move an individual along the spectrum to PTSD, or towards developing a substance abuse (or an excessive, risky behavior) especially if there is a predisposition to addiction in one’s family history. There are also mental illnesses that do not make themselves evident until a particular age is reached, often around late adolescence to early adulthood. Spotting changes in behavior can help us see early signs of mental health crises that need to be addressed.
The best care we can provide ourselves or our loved ones is to read the signs for help and seek the professional support needed. Social isolation, or changes in mood or energy levels might be easy to spot and may often be the first signs. For introverts, look for changes in behavior towards beloved activities. If you notice a decrease in productivity or activity for some time there may be more serious reasons than burn-out or disinterest. Also consider erratic behavior or distorted thinking as clear signs for help.
Ketamine Health Centers offers a myriad of procedures and therapies to help address the wide gamut of the mental health spectrum. We invite you to review our services to learn about the various therapeutic treatments and wellness options that Ketamine Health Centers provide. We are dedicated to helping our clients reach a balanced state of wellness.
