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Writer's pictureHeather Hansen, NP

Self Care is vital for good mental health


Mental health is just as important as physical health, and yet it is often overlooked and neglected. Here are a few reasons why you should never put your mental health on the back burner: Mental health affects overall health: Mental health and physical health are closely interconnected. Poor mental health can lead to physical health problems, such as a weakened immune system, high blood pressure, and heart disease. On the other hand, taking care of your mental health can improve your physical health and overall well-being. Remember to prioritize self-care and seek help if you are struggling with your mental health.


Self-care is an important aspect of mental health. Here are ten ways to prioritize your mental health through self-care:


Value yourself: Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Make time for your hobbies and favorite projects, or try new things like doing a daily crossword puzzle, planting a garden, taking dance lessons, learning to play an instrument, or becoming fluent in another language.


Take care of your body: Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Eat nutritious meals, avoid smoking and vaping, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.


Surround yourself with good people: Strong social connections are important for mental health. Spend time with supportive family and friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new people, like joining a club or taking a class.


Give back: Volunteering your time and energy to help others can improve your mental well-being. You'll feel good about making a positive impact, and it's a great way to meet new people.


Learn how to manage stress: Stress is a normal part of life, but it's important to have healthy coping strategies in place. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or prayer, or engage in activities that reduce stress like exercise, nature walks, or spending time with pets. Laughter can also boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body, and reduce stress, so don't forget to find the humor in life.


Set realistic goals: Determine what you want to achieve academically, professionally, and personally, and create a plan to reach those goals. Aim high, but be realistic and avoid over scheduling. You'll feel a sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you work towards your goals. Consider seeking help from a wellness coach to develop your goals and stay on track.


Break up the monotony: While routine can provide a sense of security, changing up your routine can give you a boost. Alter your exercise route, plan a road trip, take a walk in a different park, hang new pictures, or try a new restaurant.


Avoid alcohol and other drugs: It's important to keep alcohol consumption to a minimum and avoid other drugs. These substances can worsen problems rather than solve them.


Get help when you need it: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Treatment is effective, and people who receive appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead fulfilling lives. Don't hesitate to reach out to campus or community resources for stress and mental health.


Practice self-care: Self-care is essential for mental health. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, like getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy. Remember to be kind to yourself and prioritize your own needs.


These are just a few ways to prioritize mental health, including valuing oneself, taking care of the body, surrounding oneself with good people, volunteering and giving back to others, managing stress, setting realistic goals, breaking up monotony, avoiding alcohol and other drugs, seeking help when needed, and practicing self-care. These practices can improve overall well-being and lead to a more fulfilling life.



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