Healthy Living

You can do many simple things to improve the quality of your life. This includes things that are free or that do not cost very much and things that can make you feel better. Many people who have a mental illness report that taking better care of their health helped improve their mental illness symptoms as well.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, has a self-help guide: "Developing A Recovery And Wellness Lifestyle - A Self-Help Guide".

The guide includes ideas for lifestyle, home, employment, diet, exercise, light, sleep and more!

The Good Newsletter

The King County Mental Health Plan Quality Review Team produces a bi-monthly newsletter. "The Good Newsletter," that provides health and wellness information. Articles offer information on nutrition, exercise, healthy recipes, and online health resources.

Exercise and Fun

There are several low-cost ways to exercise and have fun in King County. Many of these activities are also appropriate for families. Even when times are tough, making time for play together is important and even therapeutic for children.

Community centers offer classes such as cooking, dancing, swimming and aerobics. Find out more at City of Seattle Parks and Recreation Department.. For King County, click here.

Participating cities through King County also offer "Fun, Leisure, Access, Savings, Health" or FLASH cards that allow people with disabilities to participate in activities at a discounted rate.

Art programs for people with disabilities

VSA Arts of Washington offers inclusive, community-based art classes, shared studio space, solo and group exhibits, and other avenues for professional development for people with disabilities.

Alternative Approaches to Mental Health Care

Food and exercise are only a small part of the options available for mental health wellness. For alternative approaches to mental health care, go to SAMHSA.

Low cost/no cost Healthcare

Contact the Community Health centers of Washington for information on low or no cost health care services for medical needs.