This 2023 Mental Health Awareness Month, take the time to focus on your mental health and learn more about how you can improve it and keep it ongoing through the following year. In honor of M Mays and her May We Prevail, I ask my blog readers to check out these Mentally Mindful Options and see how they can fit into your life.
You can use many strategies to support your mental well-being, and this blog post will provide ten ways to help you do just that. Whether engaging in self-care activities, reaching out for professional support, or creating a healthy lifestyle, there are many ways to prioritize your mental health. Let’s consider how to make Mental Health Awareness Month work for us. Let’s aim for triumph. Let us strive for victory for the rest of the days of our life. At the same time, give yourself grace if you fall short. We are all human, so that we will fall short of the nature of our being. It’s okay.
1) Practice self-care
Taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do for your mental health. Self-care is any activity or practice that helps you feel calm, relaxed, and rejuvenated.
2) Seek professional help
One of the most essential steps in improving your mental health is seeking professional help. While self-care and building a support system can be helpful, a trained professional must sometimes guide you through difficult times and offer specialized treatments.
3) Build and maintain a support system
Therapy can address various mental health concerns, from depression and anxiety to trauma and addiction. A therapist can provide a safe space to discuss your thoughts and feelings, help you identify patterns of behavior that may be holding you back, and provide tools and strategies for managing symptoms. Having someone you can turn to when you are not with your therapist is also great.
4) Engage in physical activityWhat are some specific examples of self-care activities?
Pamper yourself. Take a bubble bath, massage, or treat yourself to your favorite food. These small indulgences can help you relax and feel cared for.
5) Get enough sleep
Prioritize your physical health. Ensure you’re eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. When your body is healthy, your mind will be too.
6) Connect with nature
Be kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion and avoid negative self-talk. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and be gentle with yourself when you make mistakes.
7) Practice mindfulness and meditation
Please take breaks whenever you need them. Whether it’s a five-minute break to stretch your legs or a weekend getaway, taking time for yourself is essential for mental wellness
8) Limit screen time and social media usage
Set boundaries. Say no to commitments or tasks you don’t have the energy for, and ensure you’re setting boundaries with friends and family members if they’re taking up too much of your time or causing stress.
9) Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs
10) Find joy in hobbies and activities
It’s important to note that seeking professional help does not mean you’re weak or incapable of managing your mental health. Instead, it’s a courageous and proactive step towards taking control of your well-being. So, if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional for guidance and support.
How can someone find a mental health professional to seek help from?
If you need to find a mental health professional check out this link.
In Conclusion
Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may only work for one person. Experiment with different self-care activities and find what feels best for you. The most important thing is that you’re making time to take care of yourself, so you can continue to show up as your best self.
Author Barby Ingle, BSc Psyc
Published by KB Companies, LLC, KB Media