When people get ready to improve their mental health, what really is involved? Anything we do involves personal choice, of course. You might start by researching your symptoms and investigating what types of therapy are commonly offered for them. You then might decide to go somewhere to talk to a professional and get advice. A thorough list of available resources in Cumberland County can be found at cumberlandcountynj.gov. Look for the Resource Guide under the heading Guides and Directories.

Identifying your specific issues is a start because then the professional will be able to suggest a treatment plan. The treatment plan might include medications. The decision to proceed with a certain plan is best made as a collaborative effort between the individual and the treatment team.

Once you begin this journey, what else is involved? A healthy mind will work best when our body is also healthy. It’s no secret that Americans in general do not follow a health-promoting lifestyle. Eating healthy foods and getting enough daily exercise both contribute to overall health. We need protein, fruit and vegetables for good brain function. All our vital organs require nutrients that are carried in the bloodstream to all tissues. Oxygen-rich blood delivers the energy that our muscles need to work. And, of course, our muscles should be put to work every day. A sedentary lifestyle leads to various health problems—cardiac disease, high blood pressure, obesity, and worn-out joints.

If you have been ignoring your mental and physical health, why not resolve now to turn that around?

If you are wondering where to start on the physical side of things, here is a suggestion: There is a hidden gem in Millville—the Holly City Family Center. Located at 8 E. Mulberry Street in downtown Millville, this facility welcomes all to join in an effort to get healthy. The Center (hollycity.org) is a great place to get fit. Membership is quite affordable, and it accepts several insurances. Included in the services offered are swim lessons, an aquatic exercise program, Pilates, Zumba, weight training and Yoga. The Center welcomes all, able-bodied or not, novice or not. The team there is completely non-discriminatory regarding special needs and is friendly to all.

All of us can contribute to our own sound mind and body by taking the necessary steps to eat healthy, exercise and pay attention to what our mind and body are telling us.

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The Cumberland County Mental Health and Addictions Board actively promotes awareness of stigma and the need for public education regarding mental health and addiction. The Board meets monthly, and the public is invited to attend. Please refer to the meeting schedule on the Cumberland County website for meeting dates. The Board is also seeking new members. Interested persons should send a letter of interest and a resume to Melissa Niles, Cumberland County Human Services, 70 W. Broad St., Bridgeton, NJ 08302 or [email protected]