“CureStigma” is the theme of Mental Illness Awareness Week which takes place from Oct. 7–13.

The brain is a component of the body. It interacts with every organ, system, and tissue. When the body is not working properly, it impacts the brain. Therefore, a mind that is not working properly is often a sign of a malfunction of the body. 

“Mental health and physical health are intertwined; both types of care should be provided and linked together within health care delivery systems.” Craig W.

Colton, PhD and Ronald W. Manderscheid, PhD. Johns Hopkins

An alarming rise of teen suicides and depression has been observed in recent years, which clearly indicates that something is terribly wrong with our youth.

One factor that has been brought into focus is, excessive new media screen time. In surveys of over five hundred thousand American adolescents, psychologist Jean Twenge and her colleagues found that adolescents, especially girls, who spent more time on screen activities (smartphones, Internet, and social media) were significantly more likely to have symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation than those who spent their time on non-screen activities: sports, exercise, reading books and magazines, attending religious services, interacting in person, even doing their homework. 

Heavy Facebook use has also been cited for increase in depressive symptoms.  

Healthier alternatives for our teenagers and ourselves, is to 

• Engage in activities that engage our minds and bodies
• Spend more time with friends and family 
• Reading books 
• Exercising 
• Attending religious services 
• Participating in other meaningful activities instead of mindlessly reaching for the cell phones. 

Abstaining from Facebook and having increased personal interaction is bound to have greater psychological well-being.

Be mentally & Physically Strong.

Help spread awareness! #MIAW18

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Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.