8 Way To Care For Your Mental Health

 In honor of World Mental Health Day on October 10th I wanted to share some ways we can care for our mental health. Today I challenge you to experiment with these practices that can support your mental health and well-being. See which one helps you the most and as always, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. What do you do to support your mental health?

1. Pause and make a list of your support network. 
This could include friends, family members, therapist, practitioners, etc. Take a moment and see if there is anywhere you need more support. How can you get that need met?

2. Reach out and make plans with a loved one.
This could be a good friend or family member. Make plans to connect and do something enjoyable and carefree.

3. Make a list of  things that support your mental health.
This should be all the things that help you feel calm, well and supported. It could be a walk in nature, a session with your therapist, a good journal session or anything in between.. Looking at the list you created, is there anywhere you need to put more effort into? 

4. Get enough sleep.
Sleep is so important for our overall well-being. Take a moment to explore if there are any changes that could help support your sleep routine. Less screen time? An earlier bedtime? Make a list of ideas and choose one to work on this week.

5.Notice your self talk.
How are you speaking to yourself? Is it in a kind way? Is there an inner bully in your head that won't let you off the hook? If the bully is loud take some time today and ask yourself:
1. What purpose has this negative talk served me?
2. What would change if I began to be more compassionate to myself?

I love this mantra from Dr. Kristin Neff
"This is a moment of suffering.
Suffering is part of life.
May I be kind to myself in this moment."

6. Explore your boundaries.
Are there any boundaries in your life you need to adjust? This could be with work, family, friends, social media, etc. Honor whatever needs you may have. 

7.Clean up your social media.
Take some time to go through your social media (and email list). Unfollow and unsubscribe from anything and anyone that no longer serves you.This is a great part of boundary setting as well. 

8. Practice gratitude.
Practicing gratitude effects many parts of our lives, including our psychological health.  Buy a journal and commit to writing three things you are grateful for every morning before you start your day.

Here's to taking care of our mental health!

Be Well Friends,
​Hanna