HEALTHY MIND

Stay stimulated

The capacity to learn does not slow down with age, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Learning, reading, and playing games improve thinking capacity and may slow the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It doesn’t matter what the activity. Puzzles, word games, cards, adult education classes, and language studies are all great ways to exercise your mind.

Get physical

“The best prescription for mental health is physical health,” says Dr. Steven VanGelder of Adult Counseling & Psychotherapy of Lake County. “Amazing mental health recovery can stem from good eating, exercise, medical care, and other good self-care habits.”

Physical activity is one of the best ways to relieve anxiety, stress, and depression. Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that are natural mood-enhancers.

Talk it out

When you have issues causing you stress or anxiety, talk to a professional. Often, an unbiased ear can help you make sense of complicated situations and guide you to a path of resolution.

“Counseling is like cancer treatment: If signs and symptoms are dealt with early, the prognosis is excellent,” says Dr. VanGelder. “If allowed to progress into late-stage toxicity, the prognosis for improvement decreases with time and may become untreatable.”

Simplify your life

A lot of stress comes from having too much on your plate or too much stuff in your home. There is no shame in saying “no” to one more volunteer group, committee, or jewelry party. A professional organizer can help you get both your belongings and life in order. In addition to helping clients clean out and organize their homes, they teach organization and time management skills.

Laugh it up!

Like exercise, laughter actually causes physical changes in brain chemicals, your heart rate, and blood pressure that relieve stress. Having a positive outlook in general can improve your immune system and even relieve pain. Laughter also helps us connect with other people, thereby creating relationships that can help us stay active and mentally stimulated.