May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a reminder that mental and physical health are deeply connected. At North Central Surgical Center Hospital, we see every day how treatments across our specialties can improve not only physical functioning but also emotional well‑being. This month, we’re highlighting practical, evidence‑based physical steps you can take to support your mental health, and how our services can help.
Move your body — start where you are
- Why it helps: Regular physical activity reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves sleep, and increases energy and resilience. Even short, consistent movement boosts mood by releasing endorphins and improving circulation.
- Practical tips: Aim for 20–30 minutes a day of walking, swimming, cycling, or light strength training. Break activity into shorter sessions if needed.
- How we help: Our Orthopedics & Sports Medicine and Spine Surgery teams evaluate and treat injuries or chronic pain that limit movement. Pain Management and Physical Therapy referrals can get you moving safely.
Prioritize sleep and pain control
- Why it helps: Poor sleep and unmanaged pain worsen mood, concentration, and stress tolerance. Improving sleep quality is a major lever for better mental health.
- Practical tips: Keep a regular sleep schedule, create a calming bedtime routine, limit screens before bed, and address pain that interrupts rest.
- How we help: Pain Management, Spine Surgery, and Orthopedics work together to diagnose and treat causes of chronic pain. Effective pain control and rehabilitation improve sleep and mental outlook.
Nourish with balanced nutrition
- Why it helps: Diet affects brain chemistry, energy levels, and inflammation — all linked to mood and cognition. Nutrient-rich diets (whole foods, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats) support brain health.
- Practical tips: Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated and limit excess sugar and highly processed foods. Consider meeting with a nutritionist if you have special needs.
- How we help: Our General Surgery, Gastroenterology, and Colorectal Surgery teams treat conditions that influence digestion and nutrient absorption; resolving these can markedly improve energy and mood.
Address treatable health concerns
- Why it helps: Untreated medical issues (urological problems, gynecologic conditions, chronic foot or mobility problems, vision issues) can cause stress, embarrassment, sleep loss, and social withdrawal.
- Practical tips: Don’t delay routine screenings and evaluations. Early treatment often reduces symptoms and reduces emotional burden.
- How we help: North Central Surgical Center Hospital offers services across Urology, Urogynecology, Gynecology, Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Podiatry, and more — from preventive screenings to surgical care — aimed at restoring function and quality of life.
Use screenings and prevention to reduce anxiety
- Why it helps: Preventive care brings peace of mind and early detection, which reduces long-term uncertainty and stress.
- Practical tips: Keep up with age‑appropriate screenings (e.g., colon health). Speak to your provider about risk factors and screening schedules.
- How we help: Our Direct Screen Colonoscopy Program and Gastroenterology team make screening accessible and efficient, helping patients catch issues early and reduce anxiety.
Consider reconstructive and cosmetic care to restore confidence
- Why it helps: For some patients, functional restoration or reconstructive surgery after injury or illness improves self‑image and social engagement, which supports mental health.
- Practical tips: Discuss goals and realistic outcomes with a board‑certified surgeon.
- How we help: Our Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery teams provide functional and aesthetic care focused on restoring appearance and confidence.
Build a multidisciplinary support plan
- Why it helps: Mental health improves most when physical health care is coordinated with emotional and behavioral support.
- Practical tips: If you’re struggling with mood, anxiety, or stress, tell your medical team. Ask about coordinated care that includes referrals to behavioral health when appropriate.
- How we help: North Central Surgical Center Hospital coordinates across specialties — from Pain Management and Orthopedics to Urology and Gynecology — and can connect you with behavioral health resources when needed.
Make a plan this Mental Health Awareness Month
Small, consistent physical steps — movement, sleep, nutrition, preventive care, and treatment of chronic conditions — add up to meaningful improvements in mental well‑being. If a physical issue is limiting your life or mental health, our specialty teams are here to help create a treatment plan that addresses both body and mind.
Schedule an appointment or learn more
To learn how North Central Surgical Center Hospital can support your physical and mental health goals, visit our website or contact a physician.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Mental Health: https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) — Mental Health Information: https://www.nimh.nih.gov
- Harvard Health Publishing — Exercise and Depression/Anxiety: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-important-part-of-treatment-for-depression