PIERRE, S.D. –"Pathways to Wellness” is this year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness month during the month of May. Mental Health Awareness month began in 1949 as a way to raise awareness of mental health conditions and mental wellness.

“Today, one in four American adults live with a diagnosable, treatable mental health condition,” said Kim Malsam-Rysdon, Secretary of the Department of Social Services. “We partner with the community mental health centers, located throughout the state, to identify behavioral health needs and provide appropriate treatment to help both adults and children with the recovery process.”

During the month of May, please keep in mind these effective tools to use in supporting your own mental health and living life well:

• Connect With Others – connecting with family and friends to help decrease stress.
• Stay Positive - changing your thinking can change your life. Take steps to increase your optimism.
• Stay Active - exercise can make you happier and healthier.
• Help Others - providing help and support to others decreases stress.
• Get Enough Rest - Get 7-9 hours of sleep a night to support physical and mental health
• Take Care of Your Spirit – Take time to pray or meditate.
• Get Professional Help if You Need It – Do not hesitate to seek professional help.

There are community mental health centers located across South Dakota that provide mental health services. For more information, go to: http://dss.sd.gov/behavioralhealthservices/community/centers.asp

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