Why Self-Care Is Both Essential And Beneficial For Your Mental Health
Self-care is necessary for everyone’s regulatory functions. The goal of self-care is to feel balanced, free, and make living with a mental illness easier. You may be asking why mental health and your well-being are so important. Well, practicing self-care and cooperating self care into your everyday life leads to:
a healthier lifestyle
better physical health
improved recovery from illness
fewer limitations in daily living
higher educational attainment
greater productivity
greater employment/earnings
better relationships
increased social cohesion
improved quality of life
There are many definitions of the different types of self-care areas for taking care of your mental health. These include physical, psychological, spiritual, emotional, personal, and professional. Just like you take care of your physical health, taking care of your mental health is just as significant. Everyday you should assess how you are mentally on a scale from “Great” to “Rough”. This will make it easier to practice all the self care tips listed below to help improve your mental health.
Physical:
make sure you get regular medical care and check-ups
eat healthy
get a regular amount of sleep
make sure you exercise at least 30 minutes a day
get a massage
give and receive hugs
don’t forget to drink plenty of water
if you are on medication(s) please remember to take them
practice mediation and breathing exercises
take a hot bath or shower
go for a walk
learn yoga
dance like no one is watching
Psychological:
take time for self reflection
go to therapy or counseling
keep a journal or diary
join a support group
practice self awareness
go outside and enjoy the sun
practice asking and receiving help
read self help book
Spiritual:
meditate
pray
go to church
be in nature
volunteer
practice mindfulness
finish a task
practice forgiveness
find purpose and meaning
be inspired
play with children
go to the ocean
find a spiritual mentor
practice self-forgiveness
Emotional:
hang out with you pets
cuddle
cry
laugh
scream
engage in your community
practice positive affirmations
say “I love you”
flirt
buy yourself a present
watch movies
practice positive self talk
work with a good team of mental health specialists
listen to music
group therapy
knit
get a manicure/ pedicure
go shopping
sing
Personal:
learn who you are
figure out what you want to do in life
plan short and long term goals
make a vision board
make new friends
go on dates
write down your feelings
spend time with family
learn new things/find a hobby
cook
plan and set goals
read a book
reflect on who you are and what makes you special
Professional:
take and make the most out of your lunch breaks
leave work at work
take mental health days
learn to say “NO"
use your vacation time
set boundaries
take sick days
get support from colleagues
Don’t forget your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Self-care isn’t selfish and you shouldn’t feel guilty treating yourself as you deserve to. Practicing self-care and self-love will increase your mental health and well-being. Feel free to write in a journal or diary and create a self-care cheat sheet and write down the best tips that work for you or tips you would like to try. Also try talking to friends and family and share with everyone who may need it. Self-care is an act of self love! Don’t forget to speak up and enjoy yourself!
