According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one out of every five persons experiences mental illness. Placing that statistic into our daily lives means we are surrounded by mental illness sufferers—they are family members, our friends, colleagues, and co-workers. The stigma attached to mental illness prevents us from openly talking with our family or friends, especially about our own personal mental health trials and concerns. Awareness of an issue is the first step toward addressing it, and it is past time to admit, It’s Okay To Not Be Okay.
This Library exhibit aims to facilitate awareness needed to decrease the stigma attached to mental Illness and its sufferers. We begin by identifying "What is Mental Health" and facts about various types of mental illness. In addition to sharing library resources, we also partnered with community members, Undocumented People Rise in Solidarity and Empowerment (UPRISE), the MiraCosta College Counseling and Mental Health Department, MCC Academic Information Services, the MCC Child Development Center, and MCC staff and faculty to share with you all of the available resources at your disposal. Lastly, we invite you to share your thoughts and feelings under the "Share Your Thoughts" tab. And remember, it's okay to not be okay.
Mental health refers to the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of an individual. Our mental health impacts how we think, feel, and act. It also influences how we manage stressors in our lives and the choices we make. It is not always easy to prioritize our mental health due to stigma, lack of time, and other priorities. Not addressing our mental health concerns can lead on a downward spiral that will often continue to deteriorate our overall health. Fortunately, there are ways to incorporate techniques to begin working on our mental health such physical activity, listening to calming/relaxing music, meditating, and talking to a friend or professional. --Angelica Porras, Mental Health Counselor
Your mental health matters. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Good mental health helps you cope with stress and can improve your quality of life. Get tips and resources from NIMH to help take care of your mental health. https://go.usa.gov/xH5QU #shareNIMH
It can be difficult to cope with fear and anxiety, changing daily routines, and a general sense of uncertainty about COVID-19. Although people respond to stressful situations in different ways, there are steps you can take to help manage stress. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information at https://go.usa.gov/xMcpj. #shareNIMH
Everyone feels sad or low sometimes, but these feelings usually pass with a little time. Depression is different. Learn the different types of depression, signs and symptoms, how it is diagnosed, treatment options, and how to find help. https://go.usa.gov/xsd3h #shareNIMH
Help raise awareness about ADHD by sharing informational materials based on the latest research. Share science. Share hope. https://go.usa.gov/xGpYt #shareNIMH
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) occurs in all ethnic, racial, and economic groups. Throughout the month of April, learn more about ASD: https://go.usa.gov/xdQUV #shareNIMH
People with bipolar disorder experience periods of unusually intense emotion, changes in sleep patterns and activity levels, and unusual behaviors. Learn about the four basic types of bipolar disorder: https://go.usa.gov/xf8fp #shareNIMH
Bipolar disorder symptoms can make it hard for young people to perform well in school or to get along with friends and family members. Some children and teens with bipolar disorder may try to hurt themselves or attempt suicide. Know the signs and symptoms: https://go.usa.gov/xyxvw #shareNIMH
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. Anyone can develop PTSD at any age. Learn the signs and symptoms at https://go.usa.gov/xHvzJ. #shareNIMH
It can be tough to tell if troubling behavior in a child or teen is just part of growing up or a problem that should be discussed with a health professional. Learn more about warning signs: https://go.usa.gov/xdQUd #shareNIMH
Good mental health is about having a sense of purpose, involvement, stress management, having close relationships and being in touch with one's emotions.
The complex demands of society do contribute to mental illness and create obstacles to healing. This program examines mental health at the personal level and in a social context.
So much of our health and wellbeing comes down to how we treat our bodies every day. This program explores the key areas of modern lifestyles that take the most toll on our health and wellbeing, including diet, exercise, smoking and other drugs.
Overall well-being requires not only physical health, but psychosocial health as well. This program explains the elements that compose psychosocial health, the internal and external factors that influence it, and methods to enhance it.
Aging is a series of transitions, some gradual and some abrupt. This program examines the aging process from beginning to end, defining age from the viewpoints of biology, psychology, society, functionality, and the law.
