Here at the YANG Institute of Integrative Medicine, we understand that your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being. That is why we are proud to celebrate “May Is Mental Health Month,” which has been observed since 1949 in the United States thanks to Mental Health America. Each year, the organization chooses a different theme on which to focus. For 2017, that theme is “Risky Business,” which highlights high-risk behaviors that are either a symptom of mental illness or a precursor to developing one.
The primary goal of Mental Health Month is to spread awareness of how crucial it is to take care of your mental health and how to detect early warning signs of mental health disorders, such as depression, that South Jersey or Pennsylvania residents may be experiencing.
What are high-risk behaviors?
Certain behaviors may be indicative of an underlying mental health issue. Some of these behaviors include:
What might these behaviors indicate?
Many people who engage in these risky behaviors do so because they are trying to cope with an underlying mental disorder, such as anxiety or depression. Even individuals who are under an excessive amount of stress may turn to unhealthy outlets as a means of coping. It is important for friends and family members to recognize these signs so that they can get their loved one the help they need.
Dr. Yang, who was appointed to Philadelphia Mayor Kenney’s task force to combat opioid abuse at the beginning of this year, is keenly aware of the connection between mental health disorders and substance abuse, and he has helped many people through his non-drug therapies.
Why celebrate Mental Health Month?
Despite the fact that Mental Health America and other organizations have been advocating for the importance of mental health for nearly 70 years, many people still associate a stigma with mental illness. Because of this, they may be less likely to seek treatment, and their quality of life may suffer as a result. By educating more people about how to care for their mind as well as their body, they may be more likely to get the help they need.
At the YANG Institute, we take a holistic approach to treatment, improving your overall wellness with a blend of modern technology and ancient Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, in our Philadelphia facility. To learn more about our services, give us a call today.