Society seems obsessed with physical health and weight loss. We join gyms, take supplements, all to optimise our physical health.
However, most people don’t give their mental health a second thought. No matter how good you look on the outside or how low your cholesterol is, your life is negatively impacted if you are not feeling mentally healthy.
The pandemic has hit so many of us hard. Health and financial struggles, changes in family circumstances, an increase in general anxiety can take a significant toll on our mental health. Below are some mental health habits to practise in 2021 and beyond.
Practise Gratitude
Gratitude is a magic bullet when it comes to boosting mental health. Too often, when we’re feeling negative emotions, we deny our entire reality; that is to say, we reject all of the beautiful things that are present in our life. Be sure to take a moment each day to feel grateful for the people and circumstances of your life that bring you happiness and joy.
Value Yourself
Practice treating yourself as kindly as you do your loved ones. Understand that under challenging circumstances, you are doing your best. See the good in you and find ways to practise self-care and self-compassion every day.
Let Go
Many of us believe that we should be able to control so much in our lives. The desire for control begins with a growing sense of anxiety that things are out of control. Help yourself self-soothe and self-reassure around what is in your control and what is not. Give yourself space to reflect on ways in which you can feel safe to let go.
Supportive Community
Those who hurt us are bad for our mental well-being. It is time to move away from those who bring you down to make room for people who can support you.
Along with these suggestions, you may want to consider speaking regularly with a counsellor who will support you to navigate these difficult times and provide coping techniques.
If you’d like to explore this more, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Let’s discuss how I can help you make 2021 a terrific year. I am seeing clients online and in my office in Hove.
