Boost Your Well-being: Top Mental Health Tips You Can Start Today
Since 2020 I’ve noticed a shift in mental health and the way we talk about it as a society. I see it talked about more online. And I hear people making it a priority for themselves. I think it’s safe to say that even if you didn’t worry about mental health before, the pandemic caused some form of anxiety and/or depression. Personally, I’m glad for this shift. I’ve been open about my own mental health and wellness journey here on my blog and in real life for years now, but it’s refreshing to see others creating space for it, too.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to share some encouragement and tips to care for your mental health and well-being.
Before I continue, I want to share a very important stat:
1 in 5 adults live with a mental health disorder
5 in 5 people have mental health
We all have mental health! I believe we do not talk about this enough. Before my own journey, it seemed liked mental health was the same as mental health disorder because the only time I heard about it was in regards to a condition. But it’s not the same! Simply put, mental health is how we think, feel, and behave which includes our emotional well-being. So, looking at it that way, you see the importance of it, right?!
There are many things that can affect our mental health, both positively and negatively which in turn affect our well-being. This is why it’s good to be aware of your own mental health and what can impact you. This way, you can take active steps to create positive well-being.
Top Mental Health Tips
Routine: A routine helps create control and stability. I’ve found for myself that when I have a morning routine I feel less anxious about my day. See some ways to have a productive morning here. It doesn’t have to just be in the morning, though. If you have a process or part of your day that feels chaotic and is stressing you out, try creating a routine. Even just a step at a time will help.
Give Grace: It’s easy to get frustrated with others and want to lash out. If you’re like me, you don’t take it out on others, but you let it stress you out. Or, you’re hard on yourself for things you did “wrong”. Stop that! Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are doing your best. You’ll feel better when you extend grace to yourself and to those around you.
Take Breaks: It is so so important to give yourself rest! Whether it’s a break for lunch or a nap on the weekend, give yourself time to just be. We get so worried about hustling and being productive that we forget rest is productive, too. As they say, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Stay Active: When feeling stressed out, anxious, or sad moving your body with help get your blood pumping and endorphins flowing. Start with a walk around your yard and see how you feel.
Be Informed: It’s important to know what is going on especially if the unknown makes you anxious. But be careful not to overwhelm yourself. Some news updates may be helpful, but maybe avoid people’s comments on social media. Additionally, ask questions if you’re unsure about something so that you can feel at ease.
Talk to someone: If you have a friend or family member that you can talk to, great! But there is also no shame in talking to a mental health professional. I’ve gotten really good advice from my therapist on all kinds of topics – even about applying for jobs! (My emails and DMS are always open if you aren’t sure who to talk to!)
Sleep: It can be so hard to get enough sleep when life gets busy. But, a lack of sleep has a negative effect on mental health, so make it a priority. If you are having trouble sleeping or staying asleep, talk with a medical professional and see how they can help.
Drink your water: It seems like drinking more water fixes everything, haha. Staying hydrated will help you feel better.
I really hope that we all continue to further the conversation around mental health and work to overcome the stigma with mental health disorders.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
at 1-800-273-TALK(8255).
Call or text 988 for mental health support.
You are not alone. You are loved.