January is Mental Wellness Month and at Pioneer Memorial Hospital & Health Services, we would like to remind you that by focusing each day on improving mental wellness, you can increase resilience, help you manage stress, and build your overall sense of well-being. Enhancing mental wellness also helps to ward off symptoms of serious mental illness. There are some easy steps you can take every day to improve your mental wellness.
Exhibit an attitude of gratitude
It’s said that while every day may not be good, there is something good in every day. Focus on the people and things you are thankful for, which can help build a positive sense of self. Take a moment or two to focus on the good things, and draw your attention away from what might be negative or dragging you down. Some people find it helpful to keep a list of what they are grateful for, others find it helpful to express appreciation through prayer, conversation, or writing a note.
Set aside time to do the things you enjoy
Often we can become overwhelmed by the things we feel we “have” to do, and lose sight of those things that give our lives joy and meaning. Set aside time each day to engage in something pleasant and meaningful to you, such as taking a walk, a hot bath, or engaging in a hobby. Your pleasant event does not have to take a lot of time out of your day to add a feeling of well-being to your day.
Take a break from stress
Try eliminating or reducing those things that are not healthy or helpful to you. Take a break from watching the news, or unfollow negative people on social media. Set appropriate boundaries in your life, and learn to say no sometimes.
Slow down
Notice with intention the things you are doing. Drawing your awareness to the moment, especially those moments that are pleasant, enhances your ability to be mindful, and connect with ourselves and others.
Take care of yourself
Enhancing your physical wellness also improves mental wellness. Exercising, eating well, and treating physical illness are all important steps to take to help build an overall sense of well-being.
Ask for help when you need it
It’s actually a sign of strength to ask for help when you need it. Interim has many resources and people to talk to when your mental wellness is suffering. Don’t wait until symptoms get worse. Reaching out is free and your first step to getting back on the path to wellness.