Schedule a mental health check-up.

Whether you take the Mental Health America online screening, schedule an appointment with one of our Outpatient Therapists, or have a conversation with your primary care provider (here are some great talking tips), be sure to get a pulse for where you are on your mental health journey. Remember, help is available.

Develop a realistic self-care plan.

Self-care doesn’t have to require expensive spa treatments and exotic vacations, but you do have to build it into your schedule. We can always find a way to justify something more pressing, more urgent than taking care of ourselves. But our mental health cannot afford to wait until our mile-long to-do list is done to book some self-care time. Whether you enjoy a warm bubble bath, a device-free (see tip 3) stroll through the park or a good book, carve out time for you. Consider picking up a new hobby such as yoga, painting model cars or journaling to maintain consistent self-care.

Take a technology break.

Today’s “always-on” society is taxing on our mental health. Try to set boundaries and give yourself a break from your smartphone when possible. Perhaps block out an hour while you cook and have dinner with your family, pick up a book instead of scrolling through social media feeds, or disable the notifications for your favorite apps for a week to prevent picking up your phone for the hundredth time…this hour.

Get active!

Mental health is closely tied to our physical health so give your mental health a boost by finding something physical to do and get the blood pumping. Whether it’s aerobics, swimming, bicycling, or just brisk walking, the important part is finding a physical activity you truly enjoy so it does not feel like a chore. Keep trying new activities until you land on something you look forward to doing at least three to four times a week.

Set realistic goals and be kind to yourself.

When making life improvements, don’t expect miracles to happen overnight. Give yourself time and do your best to remain consistent in your goals by asking your spouse, friend or co-worker to be your accountability partner. If you fail one day of your new healthy eating regimen or workout plan, don’t immediately give up and accept defeat. Press reset and start again the next day! Appreciate the strides you’re making and understand big life changes happen slowly and steadily, not overnight.

Sources:

https://www.mindwise.org/blog/mental-health/make-a-new-years-resolution-for-a-healthy-mind/

https://www.crisistextline.org/blog/resolutions-for-your-mental-health

https://health.usnews.com/wellness/mind/slideshows/10-new-years-resolutions-for-better-mental-health

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-your-adult-child-breaks-your-heart/201801/five-new-year-s-resolutions-improve-your-mental

Talk therapy is also a great way to improve your mental health and well-being. For information on Peace River Center Outpatient Therapy Services, call 863.248.3311.