How to Make Your Mental Health a Priority
May is national mental health awareness month. The pandemic and self-isolation have affected each of us differently, and John Hopkins has reported that 1 in 4 adults suffers from a diagnosable mental health disorder. It is more important than ever to make mental health a priority.
Get Moving
Whether you are dealing with stress, worry, anxiety, or depression, exercise is a great way to alleviate some of these feelings. The release of endorphins in your body can help counteract the various stress hormones in your body, like adrenaline and cortisol.
If you have a busy schedule, block out some time to disconnect and get your workout done. Even if your workout is a walk around the block, get that time in to get your body moving and elevate your heart rate. Ensure that your exercise is enjoyable, don’t add pressure to yourself if you take a day off or if you can’t complete a specific distance.
Find Your Tribe
Your tribe might be family, close friends, or a network of like-minded people; the critical point is to find a group of people that you can connect to manage your stress and anxiety. If you don’t already have someone in your life that you can talk to, consider expanding your circle by joining a group based on your interests or a local committee. It will take time to build a close relationship with someone. However, it is critical to find someone that you can express and share your thoughts and feelings.
Eat Well
Many people find themselves in a cycle of feeling bad or having a bad day, then seeking out comfort food that is typically high fat, high salt or sugar, and low in nutrient density. Healthy foods and meals that you cook at home not only provide a stimulating activity that everyone in your home can participate in but provides more vitamins and minerals to keep your body going during stressful times.
As mental health is becoming less stigmatized and more acceptable to talk about, you may want to consider talking to your employer about personal boundaries and mental health days. For example, you can let your employer know that you will not be available for calls, texts, or emails after 6:30 pm. Your evenings could be your time to spend with family or simply disconnect from anything going on in the office. A mental health day is a day devoted to anything that decreases stress and brings you back to a low level of pressure, tension, and anxiety.
Get Help
When you are not feeling mentally well, you have experienced trauma, stress, and anxiety for an extended period (i.e., for two weeks or more) or can’t shake that sense of worry. It may be time to seek out professional help. Your primary care doctor should have a list of professionals in your area they could recommend or several online services that will connect you to a professional via video call, phone, or your favorite messaging system.
