During this month, many organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness, address the challenges faced by many who live with mental health conditions. Mental health awareness is not just about those who have a mental health condition, mental health awareness is also about your emotional, psychological, and social- well being. Taking care of your mental health is essential to your overall well-being. How can you take care of your mental health? By practicing self-care. Self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress. This month, no matter how busy you may be, remember to set aside time each week to give yourself some self-care.
Below are tips from the National Institute of Mental Health for caring for your mental health.
- Get regular exercise: consider taking a walk every day.
- Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated
- Make sleep a priority
- Try a relaxing activity: read a book, watch your favorite tv show, listen to a podcast, sit in the park, are all great ways to relax and unwind.
- Set goals and priorities: prioritize what needs to get done right away and put aside things that can wait. Remember it’s ok to say no to things. Don’t feel guilty.
- Practice gratitude: remind yourself of things you’re grateful for.
- Focus on positivity
- Stay connected: keep in touch with family and friends.
Check out these book suggestions for more on self-care.
