Daily Practices for a Healthy Mind
May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a perfect time to remember that taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. The National Institute of Health (NIH) estimates that in 2024 nearly 58 million Americans were living with some form of mental health condition and in our community, REMSA Health responds to an average of 13 mental health related calls every day. Managing mental health can be difficult, leaving people feeling even more stressed and overwhelmed. If you, or someone you know is experiencing an immediate or severe mental health crisis, call 9-1-1. If you are interested in boosting your overall mental wellness, keep reading.
Practicing self-care is important when it comes to mental health. Self-care means engaging in activities (or not) that enhance your overall quality of life. This includes getting good and restful sleep, exercising regularly, and eating nutritious foods. It can also look like spending time outside, journaling, reading a book, taking the dog for a walk or saying no to plans that don’t interest you. Choosing the forms of consistent self-care that matter most to you is important for optimal mental health.
Building routines is another way to care for your mental health because they provide structure, reduce stress, and offer a sense of predictability and order. This is especially helpful for people who are easily overwhelmed. Knowing what to expect reduces uncertainty and makes everyday tasks feel less daunting. Completing daily routines, even simple ones, can lead to a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.
Next, prioritize social connections and interactions. This can have a powerful effect on our health, by reducing feelings of isolation and creating a sense of belonging and self-worth. Find people to confide in and make yourself available to provide support to others. These connections are crucial when coping with stress, anxiety, grief and other challenges. Talk to friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences with others can provide perspective.
Be gentle with yourself. Treat yourself with the same compassion, patience and understanding you would offer a friend that is struggling. Acknowledging the current state of your mental health without judgement can help you gain a more realistic understanding of your situation and reduce the stress you feel around it. Being kind to yourself, practicing gratitude and focusing on the present create the right environment for mental wellness.
Finally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that 60% of people with a diagnosable mental health condition don’t get treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask for help- you don’t have to go through challenging times alone. Mental health conditions are common and seeking help is a sign of strength not weakness. It can be hard to know exactly what kind of help you need or where to start looking. Don’t be discouraged. There are public and private resources available to help you get started.
