Morgan Dickerson, MSW, LCSW
www.growingupchico.com
family time
Take Your Brain Health Temperature to Stay Mentally Healthy
16 growing up chico magazine
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ike many of you, I have been sporting a mask around town for roughly 100 or so days. Our nation is alive with an energy similar to the 1960s when Civil Rights and equality were discussed over TV dinners and meatloaf (but now it’s over our meals brought to us by Uber Eats or Door Dash). I will speak for myself, but I am feeling some of our current challenges. Part of this is because I am a human being living in 2020, and the other part is being a mental health provider practicing at a time when depression and anxiety are at an all-time high. According to the World Health Organization, more than 264 million Americans are affected by depression. One study reported by the National Center for Biotechnology Information
(NCBI) reported that more than 33.7% of Americans will experience anxiety at some point during their lives. These statistics indicate the necessity of regularly checking-in with our mental health and well-being.
Signs of Stress Knowing the signs of stress provides opportunities to create positive changes before our brain health negatively impacts our work, family life, sanity, and enjoyment. As you read the below list of challenges associated with anxiety and/or depression, make a note (or you can circle) which symptoms pertain to you. Once you finish reading the signs of stress, keep on reading to check your brain health temperature.
YOUR BEHAVIOR:
Have you noticed any of the following? • • • • • • • • • • •
An increase or decrease in your energy and activity level An increase in your alcohol, tobacco use, or use of illegal drugs An increase in irritability, with outbursts of anger and frequent arguing Having trouble relaxing or sleeping Crying frequently Worrying excessively Wanting to be alone most of the time Blaming other people for everything Having difficulty communicating or listening Having difficulty giving or accepting help Inability to feel pleasure or have fun
