Healthy Minds Matter Newsletter and Brochure (pdf)

WHyis it Important to PreventConcurrent Disorders?Preventing a concurrent disorderfrom developing is importantbecause it affects a person’s qualityof life. A person with a concurrentdisorder often has more hardshipsthan if they only had one conditionor no condition at all.Are at greater risk ofdeveloping other healthproblems than a personwith a mental illness or anaddiction alone.Are more likely tocommit suicide. Between15% to 25% of peoplewho commit suicide havea concurrent disorder(e.g., depression and analcohol addiction).People with concurrent disorders:Experience higher ratesof homelessness. About19.5% of people whoare homeless have aconcurrent disorder.Experience higher rates ofinvolvement in the criminaljustice system. Between2.2% to 11.5% of peoplewho are in jail have aconcurrent disorder.(U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2002).WHATcan be done to PreventConcurrent Disorders?Being a resilient person and achieving positive mentalhealth can help prevent a concurrent disorder from developing.Resiliency is the ability to effectively cope with, and bounce back from toughsituations (e.g., the loss of a job, the death of a loved one).Here are some tips to help you become a moreresilient person:• Learn from your mistakes. Try to view setbacksas opportunities to move forward and to learnsomething new about yourself.• Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Setrealistic goals for yourself.• Be flexible. When things don’t go your way, be opento trying a new direction or approach.• Have a positive outlook. Try to see the good, even ina tough situation.Here are some tips to help you improve yourmental health:• Create and maintain strong supportiverelationships.• Work at a job that satisfies you and providesyou with enough money.• Find a group or team that interests you andget involved.• Be physically active every day.• Eat well and get enough rest.Positive mental health isthe ability to enjoy life,deal with challenges, andcontribute to the community.Have a positive outlook.