Feeling Good, Doing Better, and Finding Solutions

Mental wellness is more than the absence of mental illness. It is an approach to life based on responsibility, self respect, respect of others and maintaining balance. Stresses in life can throw us off balance. Wellness includes knowing when to get help to get back on track. What are the keys to mental wellness? People remain balanced in spite of the stresses of life when they develop these attributes: Autonomy Taking responsibility Mastering change Recognizing options Solving problems Support Healthy relationships Effective communication Intimacy Sense of belonging Perspective Accepting reality Letting go Gaining meaning Finding a sense of humor Fitness Choosing healthy behaviors Adequate sleep and rest Proper diet Daily exercise When do you need to get help? Sometimes a troubled relationship or personal crisis requires outside help. We may become overwhelmed, even paralyzed by stress. It's time to get help when: you feel unable to shake a depressed or anxious mood. your psychological state prevents you from functioning at work and in your family. you are unable to help your child find the root of his or her behavioral problems. family or marital difficulties seem stuck in unresolvable patterns. your self-esteem and self-confidence seem shattered. you just can't do it alone. How can professional counseling help? It would be great to have a magic wand to deal with problems like depression, conflict, stress and change. Unfortunately, there are no magic wands, but professionals have skills to help people solve problems. Adults can receive help defining issues and building on personal strengths to find solutions and regain control of their lives. Couples can work on communication and understanding to move toward healthier balance in their relationships. Families can get help to identify a recurring problem, learn to understand and listen to each others' feelings and discover ways to work together. Children show signs of stress in temper tantrums, withdrawal or academic difficulties. Therapists use play as well as discussion and parental input to address problems. Adolescents often have difficulties that disrupt home and school life. Therapy helps teens identify their self-defeating behaviors and see new ways to accomplish their goals. Older people and their families may need help going through crises of widowhood, change in health status or other life circumstances. Professionals can help identify options for services and care. Group counseling offers empathy and support from others with similar concerns, under the guidance of professional leadership. Call KYC's information and assistance counselor at 847-524-8800.

 

Kenneth Young Center 1001 Rohlwing Road * Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 phone: (847) 524-8800, fax: (847) 524-8824