Maybe you could be the “1” in 3, or maybe the “1” could be someone you know and love…?

1 in 3

February is American Heart Month and, according to the CDC, 1 in every 3 deaths in the US is related to cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association notes there is a behavioral and physiological connection between cardiovascular health and mental health. Daily stressors, social isolation and loneliness, anxiety, and depression are linked to increased risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Mental Health is Heart Health

Can counseling help? Yes, it can! A licensed mental health professional can support you in moving toward positive changes that impact your health wellness goals. A therapist can assist with identifying barriers to your success and with setting SMART goals to promote accountability. Participating in counseling can help you examine thought patterns or behavioral habits and develop healthy habits around sleep, nutrition, stress management, exercise, and reducing smoking or alcohol consumption.

Don’t Forget Your Check-ups!

Get started on improving your hearth health today by scheduling your annual wellness exam with your primary care provider. Consult with your provider about whether or not mental health counseling may be beneficial for you. Consider scheduling a consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Often your health insurance benefit or EAP (employee assistance plan) benefit through your employer offers a behavioral health benefit. If insurance coverage is a barrier, many counseling agencies (including Lutheran Family Service) offer sliding-scale options. Contact Lutheran Family Service today at 605-271-1081. We’re here for you and those you love!

Virginia Strubbe, CSW-PIP, OSW-C walks alongside clients, with training and experience navigating the connection between physical health and mental well-being. She serves clients in person in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and throughout the state via telehealth. 

Reach out today via phone or our contact form: 605-271-1081   |   lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact