When suffering from a mental illness the best approach is to start by getting the body on track nutritionally. Often times a mental illness and the prescriptions given along with it can rob our body of necessary nutrients that will allow us to handle and possibly reverse the situation.

Start by taking a multi vitamin. Add to it high doses of the nutrients needed to combat the effects of stress on the body and the mind. Include essential fatty acids. These are necessary for the brain processes.

Exercise regularly. A brisk walk for 20 minutes, 3 times a week, will improve the serotonin levels in the brain. Low serotonin can sometimes be the cause of mental illness.

Get enough sleep. Eight uninterrupted hours is often all a person needs. When we do not get enough sleep it takes a toll on all of our body processes and our mind. Fatigue inhibits our ability to handle stress and see situations clearly.

Eat a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables. Preferably organic. Eat organic fish 2-3 times a week. Eat only whole grains as white flour products rob our bodies of essential nutrients needed to handle stress. Stay away from sugar, coffee and alcohol.

Find a way to handle your illness. Talking to a professional, or pastor will help immensely to get to the root of the issue. Start a journal. Find a hobby that is relaxing and enjoyable, nothing that will cause the stress of having to finish a project.

Volunteer. Sometimes taking the focus off of ourselves can be all that is needed to start to heal. Helping others is very therapeutic and the rewards are priceless.