Wellness Action Plan

18 Out of 100 People

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders such as PTSD, panic attacks, phobias, and general anxiety disorder affect 18% of people in the U.S. each year, making them the most common mental health problems.

Anxiety becomes an anxiety disorder when overwhelming fear and worry prevent you from being able to live a normal life. Anxiety disorders can affect anyone and may begin at any age.

People with anxiety disorders are unable to control their own disturbing thoughts. They may start to avoid everyday situations that they fear will trigger more stress.

Anyone in Ventura County who has a question about mental health should seek help immediately, the same way you would ask for help when we have any other health question. If ignored and untreated, extreme anxiety can prevent you from being able to participate in daily life.

Worrying, Anxiety and When It’s Too Much

Everyone experiences worry in some way during daily life. You may feel understandably anxious as a reaction to ordinary urgent situations, for example, if you are running late for work. However, you may also feel anxious when you are worrying about something that may or may not happen, a threat that only exists in your imagination.

There are things that you can do to help yourself be well and stay well. These are the simple, effective things that you know work for you.

What's your wellness action plan?

SOME COMMON WELLNESS TOOLS ARE:

  • Talk to a friend
  • Eat three healthy meals per day
  • Take a nap
  • Exercise
  • Play with my pet
  • Journal
  • Go for a walk
  • Relaxation exercise
  • Look at pictures and scrapbooks
  • Go to support group
  • Be with people who love me
  • Read
  • Do something nice for someone else
  • Watch a video
  • Listen to music
  • Take a bubble bath
  • Put on a favorite outfit
  • See my counselor
  • Ask for a medication check
  • Positive affirmations
  • Get outdoor light
  • Make music

Source: Mary Ellen Copeland, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)

If you are interested in joining the Suicide Prevention Council, please email MHSA@ventura.org