Mental Health Awareness Month (May 1 – May 31)
In 2011 if you asked me about mental health, I would not have had any idea what you were talking about except relating the word mental to a movie that I had seen of someone being put in a straitjacket and put in isolation.
In 2011, my dad committed suicide and I quickly learned about “all things mental” and I continue to learn and share to create more awareness around the subject of mental health.
Did you know that awareness of mental health began in the US in 1949? We have come so far in society. There is more awareness now about mental health. The month is to bring attention to the importance of mental health and the resources available to support it. Did you know nearly one in five Americans lives with a mental health condition according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Recently you have been seeing my post on social media about #selfcaresunday because I am committed to motivating you to take better care of yourself. Mental health is essential for our overall health.
Self-care is taking care of you. Self-care should promote health and happiness for you. Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation. A well-balanced life includes a self-care routine. Three areas that I would like to mention are physical, mental, and emotional. Below are three areas and three tips for goals that are FREE.
Physical includes diet and exercise. There is a mind and body connection. Eat health and stay active.
- Goal example
- Walk 45 minutes a day.
- Get sufficient sleep.
- Focus on positivity.
Mental practice mindfulness through activity. It is the ability to process thoughts and feelings. Setting mental health goals can boost self-esteem and confidence. Bonus tip: Setting mental health goals can help you to pinpoint and brainstorm habits, behaviors, routines, and actions. This can support you feeling good mentally.
- Goal example
- Make time for mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of becoming self-aware in the present moment.
- Find new ways to manage stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Daily say 1-3 affirmations
Emotional is the ability to cope with life and handle our emotions. It is the state we are influenced by external factors such as stress/trauma. Bonus: Learn good coping mechanisms.
- Goal example
- Watch/read something uplifting.
- Dedicate 15 minutes a day to you.
- Take time for reflection.
My challenge is for you to identify self-care needs and to create a self-care plan. To start simply start with gratitude. Gratitude is a form of self-care.
If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis and needs help dial 988 or call 800-273-8255.
#breakthestigma #selfcaresunday #mentalhealthawarenessmonth
Til then,
Kelle Cathey
www.kellecathey.com
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