Strengthening your mental health takes work. But you are worth the effort!
The theme of Mental Health Awareness Month this May is “Turn Awareness into Action.” Here are nine ways to build and support your mental health during this Mental Health Awareness Month—and every month to come:
- Develop coping skills: Learn strategies to manage stress, negative emotions, and the challenges you face in a healthy way.
- Prioritize self-care: Activities that promote physical health—like taking a walk or focusing on a favorite hobby—also support your mental health.
- Practice gratitude: Focusing intentionally on the positive aspects of your life and being thankful for what you have is a great way to disrupt the negativity that can cloud your sight of the good things.
- Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals when you need support beyond your own ability to remain steady and strong.
- Build healthy relationships: Connection is vital to our mental health and well-being.
- Set healthy boundaries: Learn to say “no” and protect your time and energy to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to enjoy healthy, balanced relationships with others.
- Play and relax: Make time for activities you enjoy.
- Practice mindfulness: Don’t just “stop and smell the roses.” Consider them. Think about their beauty, their petals and thorns.
- Be kind to yourself: Maybe above all else, treat yourself with the compassion and understanding that you would show a dear friend—especially when you are going through a challenging time.
Read more about these nine important strategies here.
FourPoints Health has mental health counselors available to help. You can also call/text the National Mental Health Crisis Line 24/7 by dialing 988.