It could almost be said that one of the tremendous benefits that have resulted from the world shutting down is the increased awareness of mental health struggles that have come to light.

Sadly it took an entire pandemic to de-stigmatize mental health. However, we are grateful for the recognition and opening of eyes, ears, and minds that have resulted from such.

So let’s talk about mental health.

What Is Mental Health?

By definition, the World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as “a state of wellbeing in which the individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a contribution to his or her community.” Mental health is just as important- if not even more essential than our physical wellbeing. We must be made aware of the power of thought and the realization that everything begins and ends inside the mind.

We can deny, reject and continuously ignore the importance of mental health with toxic positivity and the mindset that “everything is fine” even when it is genuinely not- this mentality and pattern will catch up to us one day or another, whether it be through the decline of our mental health or the decline of our physical wellbeing due to unhealthy patterns we use to deflect. We can run for a long time, but we can never hide.

Why Is Mental Health Important?

Mental health is akin to playing a game of dominos- when one piece collapses and then the rest of the tiles will fall shortly after…

Signs Of Declining Mental Health

The signs of mental health deterioration are not always immediate and visible to others or even ourselves. The decline of mental health can be slow-burning over time, and before we realize everything is on fire. Here are a few red flags signaling it’s time for a mental health check-in

  • Loss of interest in once-favorited activities
  • Reduction in social activity
  • Changes in sleeping patterns- excessive sleep or lack thereof
  • Intense mood swings
  • Increased sense of anxiety and panic attacks
  • Inability to handle generally minor stressors
  • Overeating or not eating at all
  • Problems with focus and recall
  • Increased use or beginning the use of alcohol or narcotics
  • Decrease in productivity
  • Thoughts of “going away for “awhile” or thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

How To Improve Your Mental Health

The great news is whether your state of mind is generally positive and lighthearted or may have a propensity to a darker mindset. There is always room for change and realignment. We never, ever have to stay in the same headspace!

Thanks to an abundance of information available at our disposal from medical advisors, therapists, and even our loved ones- there is hope to improve our mind even if you feel as though the walls of your mind are beginning to crumble slowly over time.

Today we are going to share some of the ways to boost your mental health!

Immerse Yourself In Nature

Several studies have shown that spending 90 minutes or more outside can do wonders for your mood and create more activity in your prefrontal cortex than those who do not spend time in the outdoors. Suppose in climate weather or other elements are preventing you from enjoying the beauty of nature. Consider listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean, wildlife, or rain to manufacture a similar experience to inspire the brain and create a sense of peace and tranquility.

Talk It Out

Most of us can agree that bottling up our emotions and thoughts has never created a long-term positive experience. Compressing problems and unpleasant experiences leads to what could be similar to a mental “backfiring” over time, whether that might be in several months or even years. Take the time to talk to a licensed therapist, psychologist, or even a friend that creates a safe space to release the thoughts that are racing in your mind and watch the feeling of relief and calm ensue.

Learn To Let Go

It is not uncommon to hold onto past grudges and incidents that have harmed and deeply hurt us in the past. It is essential to learn to process the hurt, forgive, and let go. This does not mean that we do not recognize the pain the other may have caused- but holding onto pain is only hurting, you know. Create a plan to compartmentalize, process, let go, and not be afraid to reach out to a professional if need be. Creating release for yourself can do more than you can imagine.

Find or Rediscover Something That Inspires You

Life is meant to be lived and enjoyed to the highest degree. Consider using this time to rediscover an old interest you enjoyed participating in, whether that might be painting, writing, rock climbing, or whatever piques your interest. It can be challenging to climb out of a mental slump, but it can be done.

Practice Positivity

Practicing positivity and gratitude is something that isn’t always first nature to us; it often takes time, practice, and a little bit of effort to achieve the best results. The best way to embrace the life we are given and create a foundation for more good things to come in our lives is to practice gratitude. By appreciating good, we can therefore make more good in our lives.

Prioritize Your Sleep Schedule

Our culture is often glamorizing a culture of “no sleep,” but this is a very, very dangerous practice to promote and to participate in. Our body needs time to rest and recuperate to function at the highest capacity. Whether you find your body needs 6, 8, or 9 hours of sleep, give it your best effort to find a way to get your daily z’s.

Create A Self Care Schedule

We dedicate ourselves to others all of the time, taking care of our friends, family, and even colleagues. When is the last time you did something for yourself? Take yourself to a spa, buy yourself a new outfit, or even curl up with a cup of tea and a good book. Self-care doesn’t always have to be excessive or rack up a credit card bill- it’s taking time to cherish the little things that make you happy and remind you to enjoy the life you are living.

Disconnect

Ask yourself a question…When is the last time you took a break from screens? TV? Cellphones, tablets? You probably can’t remember, can you? And even if you can, it likely still wasn’t much of a break. How many of the hours of the day do we spend glued to our phones, scrolling mindlessly on social media? Comparing our lives to others subconsciously or not. Take a break, release yourself from the screens and notice how much lighter you feel. Sometimes a little detox is needed.

Animal Therapy

Simply just existing around a little furry friend can reduce levels of cortisol that are present within the body and promote the creation of more serotonin. Reduced anxiety, heart complications, and an increase in overall happiness are side effects of choosing to spend time with our pets!

Volunteer Your Time

Many times the best thing we can do for ourselves is to focus on something or someone else. It can be easy to fall into a pattern of self-pity and eventual demise if we continuously focus on the problems in our lives. Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or local charity. Check in with yourself afterward and see if you notice a difference in your overall mood.

Get Physical

One can never stress the importance of exercise and physical activity enough. Finding a way to get in a 30-minute walk on a trail or treadmill can have remarkable effects on your physical and mental status. Please consult your primary care physician before embarking on a new exercise regime.

Track Your Progress

A great way to evaluate your current mental state is to keep a journal every day- morning or night, write down how your day was. The emotions you felt, did you feel happy, stressed, anxious, or rearing to go for the next day. Keep a log of your thoughts for

Life can be complicated and painful at times.

We understand.

Sometimes it can feel like the world around us is caving in, and there is no place to run and no one to turn to, but this isn’t the case. There is hope, and there are people who care for you and about your wellbeing and mental health. Don’t be afraid to reach out to get help if you are experiencing a decline in your mental health. There is hope, and there is a way to improve your mental state.

If you or a loved one is experiencing thoughts of suicide or harm to self-, please call The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255 or if you are struggling with substance abuse, call us at 1-904- 990-1205.

There is hope.

Don’t give up!

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