By Dr. Chris Dennis | Chief Medical Officer
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to think about how we take care of ourselves and each other, not just physically but emotionally and mentally too. As a psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at Pinnacle, I’ve seen firsthand how mental health affects every part of our lives and communities. This month is a reminder that mental wellness matters, recovery is possible, and no one should have to face mental health or substance use challenges alone.
Mental Health Is Health
Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders are more common than you might think—they can affect anyone, no matter their background. They impact relationships, work, physical health, and even your sense of purpose. But sadly, too many people still hesitate to ask for help because of stigma. At Pinnacle, we’re here to change that. We focus on caring for the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
Six Practical Ways to Support Your Mental Health
You don’t need a clinical diagnosis to start caring for your mental health. Here are small, useful steps that make a real difference:
- Get Moving: Just 30 minutes of walking can boost your mood and help you feel less anxious. Step outside and give it a try!
- Eat Well & Stay Hydrated: What you eat can make a big difference in your energy, sleep, and focus. Give a healthy diet a try for a week and see how you feel!
- Protect Your Sleep: Create a relaxing bedtime routine, ditch the screens before bed, and try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed at the same time every night can work wonders.
- Practice Mindfulness: Take a few minutes to just breathe and be present. Whether it’s deep breathing, meditating, or sitting quietly outside, it’s a simple way to lower stress. Give it a try—you might be surprised at how calming it feels.
- Connect: Reach out to people who care, whether it’s friends, family, or support groups. The opposite of addiction is connection.
- Do What You Love: Whether it’s a hobby, spending time outdoors, or getting creative, doing things you enjoy can build resilience and help you focus your energy and attention on positive things!
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders: Why Integrated Care Matters
Many of our patients face both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder at the same time. This is called having co-occurring or dual diagnosis conditions, and it’s actually very common in addiction treatment.
That’s why we focus on integrated care—treating both mental health and substance use together. It’s not just the more compassionate approach; its also more effective. It helps people stay engaged in treatment, reduces relapse, and leads to better long-term results.
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder often go hand-in-hand with substance use, so we’ve built our new co-occurring treatment programs with this in mind.
Pinnacle’s Co-Occurring Care Model
We’re rolling out programs designed to provide truly integrated care. Our clinicians are trained in both mental health and addiction, working together to create treatment plans that focus on the whole person. Whether you’re already receiving care with Pinnacle or just starting your journey, these services are here for you—and growing!
You are Not Alone
Mental Health Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that help is always here—and it really does make a difference. At Pinnacle, we’re here whenever you’re ready, offering support and guidance every step of the way.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait to reach out. Even a small step can change everything.
888-991-7351
About The Author
