Mental Health Awareness Month
Written By: Sean Ackerman, Health & Benefits Coordinator
Date: May 24, 2022
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues. Each year millions of Americans face living with a mental illness, and research shows that 1 in 5 adults will be diagnosed with a mental health condition each year in the U.S.
The coronavirus had our priorities of wellbeing shifted primarily to focus on physical health, which perhaps helped us avoid the contagion but brought about other problems, especially regarding mental health. One of Parkhill's collective values is Life Balance. This value has been at the forefront throughout the pandemic and as we reconfigure the firm's policies and adapt our work environment to employee needs, including maintaining health and happiness.
Neurotransmitters help regulate our mood. These chemicals serve as messengers that 
allow neurons to talk to one another. There are several types in a multitude of categories. However, four are most associated with uplifting our mood and improving wellbeing.
Happy Hormones
Dopamine – Reward Chemical
- Celebrating small wins
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating nutritious foods
- Exercising regularly
- Self-care
Serotonin – Happy Chemical
- Meditating/prayer
- Exercise
- Sunlight
- Music
Oxytocin – Love Chemical
- Spending time with friends
- Playing with animals
- Meaningful conversations
- Getting a massage
Endorphins – Feel Good/Pain Relief Chemical
- Dark Chocolate
- Eating spicy foods
- Laughing
Choose one or two things from each chemical category and turn them into a new habit, or if you are already incorporating some of these and can see a difference, that is great!
Eating chocolate and playing with your pet in the sun are not cures for mental illness, and these tips are not making light of serious issues. A change in perspective or positive stimulation during your day can make a significant impact that might give some reprieve and help lay a path to a renewed state.
