Self-Care Tips for Mental Health Awareness Month!

This month, it’s extremely important to focus on your overall mental health and well-being. During this past year and a half, the world has had to navigate through many challenges and changes due to the pandemic. This has resulted in increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. 

This is why it’s critical to spend some extra time doing what’s best for you. Focus on self-care this month. It could be something as simple as reading a good book, taking a bath, going for a run (or a walk), taking a class (baking, cooking, photography, etc.), or practicing meditation. 

On the surface, self-care is simply defined as taking care of yourself. In actuality, it encompasses much more than that. When thinking about self-care, consider your mind, body, and social environment. All of these factors play a role in the state of your overall mental health. 

Body:

•Remember to eat a healthy, balanced diet.

•Stay hydrated.

•Get proper sleep.

•Stay active (exercise regularly — 30 minutes for 3-5x per week). 

•Stay up-to-date with preventative healthcare appointments.

Mind:

•Read a good book.

•Spend time with pets.

•Practice mindfulness.

•Try yoga.

•Practice forgiveness (forgive others and yourself). 

•Practice gratitude.

•Try acupuncture or massage therapy.

•Manage stress. 

•Exercise.

•Invest in yourself.

•Try new things. 

•Rid your home of clutter (emotional and material).

Social Environment: 

•Don’t feel guilty for saying “no” to others. Don’t burn yourself out. 

•Surround yourself with relationships that positively influence your life.

•Volunteer.

Since you may already know that my blog focuses quite a bit on reading, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of reading for one’s mental health. 

Health benefits of reading:

There are many health benefits from reading books regularly. Studies have found that just 30 minutes of reading can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of stress. Reading has also been found to increase a person’s ability to empathize, heightening the ability to understand the feelings and beliefs of others. Reading books can help alleviate symptoms of depression, prepare you for a good night of sleep, and help to prevent age-related cognitive decline.

What are you waiting for?! This month, pick up a good book, spend time with your pet, and make time for you! 

*Please note: If you are struggling with a serious mental health condition, always speak with a medical professional to get the proper treatment that you need (therapy, medication, etc.). Your mental health matters and you are NOT alone.*