1. Stress and Mental Health
Finding Balance!

2. Mental Health There are a variety of aspects related to mental health
Physical aspects:
Nerve connections
Thinking patterns
Neurotransmitters
Chemical patterns
Endocrine Organs
Hormonal connections

3. Health Aspects Lifestyle Aspects Dietary considerations
Foods that affect mood
Physical Activity
Exercise that enhances mood
Lifestyle Aspects
Sleep patterns and habits
Daily schedule and routines
Organizational skills

4. Spiritual Aspects Time for QUIET Time for THINKING Time for REFLECTION
Time for Self-CORRECTING
Prayer, devotional reading, Church attendance
Seeking forgiveness, mercy and grace
Extending this to others
– Social Networking

5. Community Aspects Personal Aspects Focusing OUTSIDE of self
Giving to others
Being involved
Allowing others to help
Developing HEALTH relationships
Personal Aspects
Developing a health sense of self
Having goals, focus, HOPE
Identifying gifts, and giving these!

6. Mental Health Triggers
Genetic Issues
Family history of depression, bi-polar, anxiety, etc.
Most of these are chemical in nature
Traumatic Issues
Sudden, overwhelming events
Combination of big events

7. Substance Abuse Issues
Chronic Issues
Long term neglect of self
Bad habits that become issues
Substance Abuse Issues
Chemical compounds that are neurologically active
Chemical dependency

8. Psychological Issues
Chronic exposure to negative, hateful, angry, or violent material
Chronic exposure to pornography
Chronic exposure to material that is degrading, insulting or does not honour individuals as Image- Bearers of God.

9. How do we cope? Admit that you have a problem
Stop the cycle of self-medication
Prayer and Support
Seek professional help
Counseling
Medication
Therapy
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Art/Music Therapy
Support Group