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Healthy Balance

Mental Health Resources (Page 4)

Bonding moment of father and son embracing and giving emotional support

Why is mental health important? Because it affects every single one of us. In the past, we viewed mental health through a narrow lens: mental illness was something that happened to a small group of people. That allowed discrimination to take hold. As a society, we’re still working to shake off the stigma attached to mental health.

The truth is mental health is a key part of every person’s health and well-being. It’s so closely tied to physical health that the two can’t be separated. UVA Health psychologist Kim Penberthy, PhD, breaks this down using sleep as an example. “Stress impacts sleep and poor sleep weakens the immune system,” she explains. A weakened immune system makes us more likely to get sick, which in turn causes stress.

Mental health issues — stress and many others — affect all of us at different points of our lives. People around the world face:

  • Postpartum depression
  • Isolation and loneliness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Body image issues
  • Emotional rollercoasters during menopause
  • Stress from chronic health issues, finances, or relationships
  • Discrimination due to racial, ethnic, and LGBTQ+ identities
  • PTSD from trauma
  • Mental illness and psychological disorders

Finding Mental Health Resources

If you’re struggling with a mental health challenge, it’s important to know help is available. Leaning on friends and family can help. Other mental health resources include counseling and support groups. Some mental health issues respond well to medical treatments, like medications.

Where to Find Help

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

You can also find behavioral health services at UVA Health.

Supporting Those You Care About

You don’t have to be a mental health professional to help someone struggling with mental health challenges. If you’re worried about someone you care about, don’t be afraid to reach out. But it’s important to be mindful of your approach. Avoid platitudes or jumping in with solutions unasked. Listening without judgement works best. Read more on the dos and don’ts of supporting someone in crisis.

Not sure where to start? The articles here can help you learn:

  • The signs and symptoms of mental health problems
  • How to care for and support others
  • Tools for maintaining daily wellness
  • Self-care tips for managing conditions
TMS therapy patient, Karen
Depression, Meet Your Match: TMS Therapy
Patient Stories 10/10/2016

Now 50 years old, Karen remembers depression as a major factor in her life since she was 12. After college, she followed a fairly normal trajectory: She got married and started a family. But Karen’s inner life was anything but normal.

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Maternity Monday: The Reality of Postpartum Depression
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Q&A: Robin Williams and What You Should Know About Depression and Suicide
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The sudden death of actor Robin Williams has put mental illness and Parkinson’s disease in the spotlight. Kim Penberthy, PhD, works with patients who have severe depression and talks about the stigmas, myths and what you can do to help. [caption id="attachment_8665" align="alignright" width="100"] Kim Penberthy, PhD[/caption] Are there any…

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Pay Attention: The Medicine of Mindfulness
Integrative Medicine, Prevention 1/23/2012

Each Monday this month, we’re looking at the UVA Cancer Center’s Integrative Medicine Program. It starts like this. You’re driving down the road. Another driver pulls out, cuts you off without even looking. Or the truck behind you tailgates too close. Even before your brain registers what’s happening, your body…

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