The last couple of years have brought along a large toll to mental health in a gravity that most Americans did not expect. And with that, a lot of us let go of any mental health practices we had, since with most routine, the essence of "normal life" went out the window. This year it's important to reminisce on that and truly appreciate the little things that make such a large difference on our peace of mind.
Today is World Mental Health Day, which means we're paying attention tactics for mental clarity and calmness. Below I will include some therapist approved tips and hotlines, so feel free to share with a loved one, share on social media, or just save it for yourself.
While this one is going to sound trivial and over-talked about, there really is something to forcing yourself to go out in nature. Whether it's just for a simple walk, a car ride, or anything else that gets you near multiple shades of green or blue. It almost allows you to have more space to clear your mind, and it feels less confining than your usual quarters.
Hop on Facetime with a friend who makes you laugh. You don't even have to get into a deep conversation about how you feel if you don't want to, but if you do I just like to be mindful first and ask them if they're in a healthy mental space to listen to you unload (to be considerate for the other person's mental state as well as yours).
Write. Typed or with a pen. Take out that old lined spiral notebook that's been sitting on your shelf for ages. Even better, combine it with #1 and write outside. There's something kind of overwhelming about holding all your thoughts and trying to organize them in your brain. It feels like an episode of Tidying Up with Marie Kondo where you're just trying to neatly fold through what brings you joy vs what you can toss out. Writing is your Marie Kondo, or at least it's mine- so try it out and let me know if you find it helpful.
If these aren't feeling like enough, remember that healing isn't linear. Some good sources to reach out to are Crisis Text Line, The Lifeline, NAMI, and Postpartum Support. All free, all easy to reach crisis hotlines for anyone in emotional distress.
VPOD Wireless TENS, EMS & NMES Unit
$149.00
Pain sets limits. You deserve to be limitless. Our VPod Wireless TENS Unit is a lightweight, portable device that will provide natural pain relief for all of your aches and pains. Break the boundaries and live a limitless life with… read more