On World Mental Health Day, new ways to boost your well being
CHICAGO (CBS) -- It's no secret the COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of stress.
Now health experts say it's led to a 25% rise in anxiety and depressive disorders. On this World Mental Health Day, researchers are encouraging new ways to boost your well being.
Britain's mental health foundation studied the best ways to deal with anxiety and depression. Among their suggestions to feel better: connecting with nature, exercising, talking to someone, getting more sleep, not using alcohol and drugs to cope and managing money and debt.
It's also helpful to plan things to look forward to. And it's not just for adults. Experts also stress it's important for parents to listen to their kids from an early age.
"There is something about our society that demonizes negative emotions. We don't want sadness. We don't want anger. We don't want stress, but these are valuable signs that something is going on," said Dr. Antonis Kousoulis, Director for England and Wales at the Mental Health Foundation.
If you recognize the signs, like changes in sleep patterns or behavior, you can better take care of yourself and those around you. If you experience a mental health crisis, there is help available 24/7.
Just call or text the suicide prevention lifeline at 9-8-8.