This May, as we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, our Behavioral Health Team is committed to enhancing our understanding and support of mental health. Each week, we will share insights and resources focusing on a different aspect of mental health. This week, we begin our journey with a brief look at depression. We hope these resources will enrich our knowledge and assist in our ongoing efforts to support each other and those we serve. Warm regards, AccelHealth Behavioral Health Team
Interesting Fact: Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting over 264 million people of all ages (World Health Organization, 2020).
Resources for More Information:
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH Depression
- Mental Health America (MHA): MHA Depression Support
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Workplace Health Promotion, Depression
Self-Directed Exercise:
- Gratitude Journaling: Spend 10 minutes each day writing about things you’re grateful for. Research shows that gratitude can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
Mindful Stretching: Movement has an immediate effect in reducing negative emotions. Research show movement like stretching or mindful movement can reduce stress and improve mental health (Yang & Conroy, 2018). For a mindful stretching guided video click here.