Prioritizing Your Mental Health
Mental health is as important as physical health. Yet, we often neglect our mental well-being in the hustle and bustle of daily life. In our society, there is a growing recognition of the importance of mental health, but many still struggle to prioritize it in their daily lives. Mental health is the foundation of our overall well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. It influences our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions.
Neglecting mental health can lead to a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. It can also exacerbate physical health problems. Prioritizing mental health means taking proactive steps to care for your mind, just as you would for your body. This can include practices such as mindfulness, self-reflection or therapy (some would say everyone should have a therapist -- or at least a caring and knowledgeable friend who can listen and help). It's about creating a balanced and healthy mental state that allows you to thrive in all areas of life.
Some of us would deny or maybe I should say, "not recognized" that we have some mental health concerns that need our attention. The words "mental" still carry a negative connotation for many people. We all may have mental health 'concerns' from time to time. However, these are concerns until we allow our signs and symptoms to persist and become an ongoing situation causing frequent stress and affecting our ability to function. If that is the case, I pray and urge you to seek assistance from a mental health professional as soon as possible.
However, here I am referring to the first scenario. That in which we don't take time or neglect to do the things that put our minds in a state of stability and well-being. When we don't take time to relax, to really breathe, to enjoy family and friends, to have fun, to learn something new, do something exciting, to exercise, spend time in nature or just get some fresh air...and the list of possibilities goes on and on. Unfortunately, as a result of not taking time to rejuvenate -mind, spirit and body - we fall into stress, burnout and overwhelm. Let's not let that happen...at least not anymore.
Hear are just three actions we can do on a regular basis (there are so many more) to make our mental health our priority. Though I'm sure you already have a long to-do list, adding these, or something similar, can go a long way to help keep your life in balance and your mental well-being on track.
To-Do List:
Set aside 10 minutes daily for meditation or mindfulness. These practices can help reduce stress, increase focus, and improve overall mental clarity. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable with the practice.
Keep a journal to express your thoughts and feelings. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and gain insights into your mental state. Make it a habit to write in your journal regularly, even if it's just for a few minutes each day.
Reach out to a friend or therapist if you're feeling overwhelmed.Â
And if you can do so over an activity you enjoy, even better! Talking to someone you trust can provide support and perspective. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you need it. Therapy can be a
valuable tool for managing mental health.
Self-Reflective Questions:
How do you currently manage stress? Understanding your current coping mechanisms can help you identify areas for improvement.
What are your triggers, and how can you address them? Recognizing what causes you stress or anxiety can help you develop strategies to manage these triggers more effectively.
Do Now Activity:
Write down three things you're grateful for today. Practicing gratitude can shift your focus from what's going wrong to what's going right, promoting a more positive outlook.
Downloadable Content: Download Gratitude Journal Template
 Use this template to start a regular gratitude practice. It's a simple yet powerful way to improve your mental health and overall well-being.
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