Every day, Americans are affected by the myriad challenges, stresses and demands on their lives. And every day, they seek help in responding to them.

 

The good news is there are tested and effective tools that are readily available and free that anyone can use to help them cope better and improve their well-being.

 

This Mental Health Month, Mental Health America is encouraging Americans to use these tools, which form the Live Your Life Well (SM) campaign.

 

Live Your Life Well (SM) is a national public education campaign dedicated to helping people better cope with stress and enhancing their well-being. Stress can take a huge toll on a person's health, mood, productivity and relationships, but specific, evidence-based tools can help counterbalance these effects.

 

Mental Health America created Live Your Life Well (SM) to increase the number of people who take action to protect their mental health, both in the face of ongoing stress and in times of great personal challenge.

 

The heart of the program is the Live Your Life Well (SM) website—that provides 10 research-based, straightforward tools and ways to apply them in everyday life. From relaxation techniques to journaling exercises to simple ways to get better sleep and improve eating habits, the materials offer a wide range of resources to build resiliency and well-being.

 

Here are the ten tools discussed on the Live Your Life Well website:

 

1. Connect with others

2. Stay positive

3. Get physically active

4. Help others

5. Get enough sleep

6. Create joy and satisfaction

7. Eat well

8. Take care of your spirit

9. Deal better with hard times

10. Get professional help if you need it