A good reminder of the importance of community from Monday's paper, opinion page:

Each year, Hoosiers recognize May as Mental Health Month. It is also the perfect time to make sure each of us is doing everything possible to make sure our health habits promote mental health and strengthen our overall health and well-being.

The best way to live a mentally healthy life is to have relationships with others. Research has shown that people with little social support experience more severe illnesses and slower recovery than those with strong support. Also, people who feel valued and cared for are at a reduced risk for disease.

Persons who are connected with a varied social network of family, friends, coworkers, and community members have better mental and physical health. Social support buffers the effect of stress on psychological distress, depression and anxiety.

Mental Health America of Indiana acknowledges we all live in busy, hectic times. We encourage all Hoosiers to make new connections that help protect their mental and physical health as well as help others.

~Stephen C. McCaffrey
President & CEO Mental Health America of Indiana, Inc.