In the rush of daily life, we tend to focus on everything else except ourselves. When I’m juggling an urgent to-do list (The kids have wild school and sports schedules, can I get the laundry done tonight, and did I buy enough groceries to make dinner this week?) when is there even time to focus on something like my mental health? It’s easy to dismiss our own struggles when we focus on work or family. Have you heard the saying that you can’t pour from an empty pot? Everyone deserves to spend time taking care of themselves. The more we take care of ourselves, the better we can connect and show up for others. May is National Mental Health month! What better time to begin looking at ways to improve your mental health?
3 Things you can do alone
- Create mini-problems with mini-solutions!
It is easy to spiral when we try to solve problems. Think of to-do lists to break larger tasks into smaller items. Instead of cleaning the whole house, try to check off little wins: fold laundry, sweep front porch, dust bedroom. Each time you check a box off of your list, celebrate yourself for getting something done.
- Treat Yourself!
Movies love to show their characters jetting off to a fancy spa or resort to be pampered all day. We don’t always have time or money to commit to this, so find ways to put little luxuries into each day. Buy yourself your favorite coffee. Do your makeup even if you’re just going to the store. Add bubbles or oils to a bath or shower. Find easy ways to care for yourself.
- Disconnect.
We spend a lot of time looking at screens. Cell phones give everyone access to each other and can make us feel like we have to be available 100% of the time. Pick 5-10 minutes a day where you put your phone down. Use that time to go stand outside, drink a glass of water, or even sit and focus on your breathing. (Here are some great breathing techniques.)
2 Things you can do with others
- Random Acts of Kindness
Set a goal to compliment one person a day. You can tell a stranger that you like their outfit, or hold the door for a coworker. Help someone pick up something they dropped outside. While it might be a small gesture, it will spread moments of joy. Finding a compliment helps you look for positive things you see in your daily routine.
- Commit Time
It can be easy to forget that humans are social animals. We often miss spending time with friends and family. On the other hand, organizing schedules can feel impossible. If it is too hard to get together in person, set reminders to send notes to your loved ones. A quick video call or a loving text message can make all the difference in feeling connected.
1 Thing you can do for yourself
Reach out for support.
Any time you can take to center yourself is time well spent. We all deserve support, whether our problems feel large or small. Our challenge to you this Mental Health Month is to reach out to someone for support. It can be a friend, a family member, or Contact our Intake Team if you think that therapy could be a good next step. (We certainly think it is!)
Gwen Curtis, Director of Client Experience
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