Mental health is not something to be ignored.
With the address stress the past two years have brought, we need to be more aware of our own wellness, perhaps now more than ever. In fact, one in four adults struggle with a diagnosable mental disorder. Although many are aware of their stress points and are able to manage it, as much as 45% of people leave their mental health untreated. And with the untold amounts of stress the past year has put on people, there’s even more reason for all of us to learn to take better care out ourselves.
Take time to slow down
Not everyone who is stressed or depressed needs to seek professional help. But all of us need to make sure we are taking care of ourselves. Taking care of yourself may mean very different things from one person to another. But one thing is certain for all of us, we need to take time to slow down. When we fail to take care of our mental needs, we miss out on the best things in life.
Take care of yourself
For those who struggle with their mental, the stresses of daily life make it difficult to retain a job, maintain relationships or enjoy the best things in life. In 2019 alone half of millennials and 75% of Gen-Zers left their job due to mental health issues. Mental heath is also connected to physical health. In fact, those with serious mental illness are twice as much at risk for heart and metabolic diseases.
Here are some practical ways to take better care of yourself.
Stress management. Managing your stress cannot be understated. Although stress may seem inevitable, there are many ways to mitigate and eliminate stress from your life. Take some time a evaluate what is causing you the most stress in you life and make a plan to tackle them one at a time.
Meditation. Set aside some time in your week to quiet your day. Removing distractions from your life, especially in this time will help you calm down. Find some peaceful music and a space for you to spend some time, distraction-free. This profoundly impactful way to improve your mental health has been found to improve many other areas of your life. See this article for more reasons to meditate.
Stay Positive. Although this sounds cliche, making an effort to be optimistic has a profound impact on one’s overall health. For many,
Do one thing everyday that makes you happy. Wether its starting your day with a cup of coffee, or talking to a loved one on the phone. Finding small, meaningful things in your life will improve your health and quality of life.
Find a mentor. There are many reasons having a mentor in your life will help you. In fact, mentoring and being mentored are two of the best ways to grow. A mentor will inspire you, motivate you and help you reach your goals. For more on finding a mentor, read this article.
Exercise. Wether its a bike ride, a walk with a friend, or a trip to the gym, exercise improves one’s overall health. Investing in your health by exercising a few times each week. If it has been awhile, find a friend who will encourage you to exercise.
Give yourself a break. Planning a getaway for yourself and/or your family is one of the best ways to jumpstart your mental health. Wether its a camping trip with friends or a trip someplace warm. Planning a vacation means you have something to look forward to. This alone will boost your overall happiness for as long as eight weeks.
We all need a break sometimes, and so does your body. Stress, anxiety and depression can attack everyone. Thats why it is important to listen to your body and heed the warning signs. Find a friend you cal talk to and start meeting with them to de-stress and talk about you life. Be sure to listed to them as well. There is strength in community and that strength is one of the best ways to live a life with less stress and more fulfillment.
Source: Entrepreneur.com
Source: Forbes.com