Mental health problems are a growing health concern, according to the Cigna COVID-19 Global Impact Study. People are worried about their health and also financial well-being if illness strikes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes on the importance of mental health in handling the stress caused by the outbreak.
Signs of mental health issues
Knowing the warning signs of anxiety can help you maintain good mental health:
- Difficulty sleeping, changes in sleeping habits
- Increased use of stimulants such as tobacco, alcohol and other substances
- Loss of appetite, changes in eating habits
- Changes in sex drive
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Excessive worrying or fear
Having a positive outlook on life, increased productivity and better immunity are benefits of good mental health. A study carried out by Carnegie Mellon University on college students administered with flu shots found that factors including a combination of loneliness and small social network caused a weakened immune response.
Costs of mental illness treatment
Furthermore, stress-induced conditions including heart disease and diabetes often incur expensive medical treatment, taking up USD$3.8 billion which amounted to 17.6% of total health expenditure Hong Kong, according to a study carried out by the Asia Care Group.
Costs associated with stress-related illnesses in Hong Kong:
- USD$1.4 billion on medically unexplained conditions manifested from stress
- USD$1.3 billion on physical symptoms manifested from stress
- USD$1 billion on stress-related mental illness
How to maintain positive mental health
Knowing how to maintain positive mental health is a form of self-care that will bring your stress under control.
Here are a few everyday tips to help you maintain good mental health:
- Take a deep breath, make meditation a daily habit
- Exercise regularly even at home
- Take frequent breaks, go for walks to get some fresh air
- Get enough sleep every day
- Have regular check-ins with your friends and family
- Seek help from healthcare professionals if you are unable to cope with the stress
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