May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and though this month is coming to a close, the importance of mental health is ongoing. Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter is reminding residents of the following key factors regarding improved mental health, and resources available to you in our Town.

When addressing the subject of mental health, it is important to note that mental health encompasses a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It impacts how we think, how we feel, the choices we make, and how we relate to others. Mental health goes beyond the concerns of mental illness. It’s an essential part of one’s overall health and quality of life.

Simply put, mental health, is health. Perhaps, no group knows this better than the youth in our community who must navigate a crucial developmental stage with the added pressure of social media, emerging technology trends, and school safety concerns.

In 2022, Youth Enrichment Services, YES, opened a new state-of-the-art mental health facility in Brentwood, to assist youth in our community, and address the ongoing need for affordable mental health care. YES’ team of dedicated licensed mental health professionals has worked valiantly to cultivate services to ease mental health concerns of youth aged 5 to 21. These specialized programs assist our youth in navigating their mental health, and in creating healthy outlets and coping skills.

“Now more than ever, we’re seeing the importance of taking care of our mental health. Services provided by YES’ dedicated team of professionals affords much-needed healthcare to our residents who may not otherwise receive the help they need for their child, or themselves. We are truly grateful to these extraordinary clinicians who take the time to listen, and in turn, provide the coping skills needed to live a healthier life,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter.

Mental health is an essential and important topic for all stages in life, not just our youth. Taking care of your mental well-being means taking time to focus on yourself by practicing self-care. The practice of self-care can help manage stress, lower the risk of illness, and increase energy. Even the smallest acts of self-care in one’s daily life can have an immensely positive impact.

One way to practice self-care is to exercise and be in nature. Research has shown that connecting with nature can generate positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, spark creativity, and even improve concentration. Exercise releases endorphins, which help relieve pain, reduce stress and improve mood.

“A simple 30-minute walk each day in nature can have a positive effect on our well-being. Here in the Town of Islip, we are fortunate to have many parks and beaches for residents to enjoy,” said Supervisor Carpenter.

Another way to improve your mental well-being is through recreational activity. The Town’s dedicated Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs staff have designed a variety of programs for all ages that bolsters mental health. Some of the activities offered include beach yoga and Pilates, Horseback Riding, Open Gym Basketball and Pickleball, and so much more, all of which can be found in the Town’s Recreation Newsletter.

The Town’s free exercise program, Get Fit with Nick, is a popular way to stay active and promote mental health. This exercise video series is available on the Town of Islip’s YouTube Channel and website. The “Get Fit with Nick” exercise program features three levels, Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced exercises.

Other ways to practice self-care is through healthy eating and staying hydrated. A healthy, well-balanced diet can help you think clearly and feel more alert. It can also improve concentration and attention span. On average, our brains are composed of 73% water, which is why staying hydrated is important. Brain function can be severely impacted by dehydration, in turn impacting mental health. The feeling of being thirsty is an indicator of hydration, so stay one step ahead by drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day and limiting caffeine consumption.

“Our Town offers many recreation programs to enjoy and nature preserves to explore, that can be part of a self-care routine. Mental health is health, and prioritizing your well-being by taking time each day to practice self-care and mindfulness can greatly improve your overall quality of life,” concluded Supervisor Carpenter.