healing mind & body
the connection between mental & physical health
People living with mental illness are at greater risk of experiencing a wide range of physical conditions. They can experience depression and anxiety at twice the rate of the general population.
Mental illnesses can alter hormonal balances, sleep cycles, and immune system function while many psychiatric medications have side-effects ranging from weight gain to irregular heart rhythms.
To address these concerns, we started a wellness collaboration in 2012 with Allina Health. The idea was to help Bridgeview members adapt healthier lifestyles by better understanding the mind-body connection.
Coined "Bridgeview Balance" the program includes physical activities and educational sessions led by mental health and medical staff from Mercy and Unity hospitals in Coon Rapids and Fridley - both part of the Allina Health system.
Activities have included:
- guided imagery for stress relief
- hand and arm massage
- Qigong (a Chinese meditation technique)
- nutrition counseling on "good mood" vs. "bad mood" foods
- healing touch
- exercise techniques
- blood pressure screenings and instructions on medication management.
Bridgeview members also participated in a Wednesday Walking Club and a salad bar lunch each Tuesday.
We're thankful that this program will continue through 2013.
Bridgeview, in Spring Lake Park, serves adults living with serious and persistent mental illness. It's a drop-in center and is one of the many mental health programs we offer to the community.
Save the Date: The 3rd Annual Breakfast for Bridgeview is coming up on Tues., June 4th. It's from 7:30 - 9 am at Murzyn Hall in Columbia Heights. Featured speakers are David Wellstone & Ken Barlow from The Wellstone-Barlow Mental Health Initiative.
The cost is $ 20 per ticket or reserve a table of 8 for $ 125. Seating is limited so reserve now by contacting 763-230-7836 or phalvorson@leecarlsoncenter.org. 
