Life is messy and imperfect, and sometimes we can start to feel overwhelmed by things happening in our lives or by the feelings we begin experiencing. When negative thoughts and feelings take over it can be discouraging, and at times, isolating. In times like these, taking care of yourself is more important than ever. It’s not selfish. It is completely essential to your well-being!
Here are a few ways to promote your mental health and well-being:
Try a new skill or craft→ If there is a craft or activity you have been interested in trying but never got around to, it’s never too late to get started! Sometimes having a new hobby or skill that you are passionate about can be just what you need to kick-start positive self-investment. When you begin to feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment, negative feelings can begin to subside.
Connect with people→It can be relieving, and easier to work through feelings when you share them with someone you trust. When you talk about your feelings, it can be a first step in acknowledging them and taking charge of them as well! Your feelings don’t always have to be shared either, it is refreshing to spend time with an old friend or get to know someone new. Consider reaching out to someone you have been thinking about lately, and let them know that you are thinking of them.
Speak with a therapist or counselor→For many, it can be hard to talk about new feelings with people close to you. In such a case, communicating with a therapist or counselor could help immensely. These professionals are acquainted with feelings similar to your own and may be the right fit for those who need a helping hand in their journey toward greater mental wellness. In addition, some people might find comfort in a peer support group. Hearing from people experiencing similar feelings may help to cope with emotions and understand ways to work through them.
Take care of your physical health→ To start, spend time taking care of your basic needs, this could include getting plenty of sleep, brushing your teeth, eating a balanced meal, or getting exercise. When we tend to the needs of our bodies, it brings a sense of fulfillment to our minds. It may require a bit of self-discipline and mental toughness to complete these tasks when it is the last thing we feel like doing, but the reward of getting up and making choices to better our wellness can motivate further change! If you are still feeling down, sometimes a day to pamper yourself and relax can ease your mind and may help you to find joy in little things.
Take a break from the media→ We are consumed by social media and news coverage, it is all around us, and it is not always positivity that is spread. We turn to mindlessly scrolling and searching for entertainment through media. It is easy to spend too much of our day scrolling to trigger the boost of ‘feel-good’ hormones. Although it is tempting, set a limit on your phone and find time to do something you enjoy that will refresh your mind and make you feel accomplished.
Remember to be kind to yourself, you deserve to prioritize your mental health. Negative thoughts and feelings are only temporary, with a little guidance and support, you can get back to feeling like you! If you need help identifying the signs and symptoms of someone dealing with mental illness, view our blog regarding the signs and symptoms.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7
Bucks County Mental Health Crisis Line: 800-499-7455
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
National de Prevencion del Suicidio: 888-628-9454
The Trevor Lifeline: 866-488-7386
The Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860