4 Tips on Self Love and Protecting Your Mental Health

4 Tips on Self Love and Protecting Your Mental Health

 

4 Tips for Building Your Mental Health and Self Love

September is an important month for many as World Suicide Prevention Month; but the fact is that even once it passes us by, we need to be aware of this important issue. Unfortunately, over 45,000 people in the U.S. die of suicide every year, which adds up to roughly one death every 11 minutes. There is no specific “type” of person who commits suicide. Perhaps the most troubling thing about suicide is the fact that there is such a stigma around discussing it.

That’s why we’re facing the topic head-on, and delving into how you can take care of yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically. Feel free to pass these tips on to others—and look out for those around you.

1. Avoid Isolation

It’s incredibly important to avoid isolation when caring for your mental health. Even those that live with roommates or their families can feel isolated at times—and conversely, even if you live alone, you don’t have to be isolated. Though the pandemic has made it more challenging for people to socialize in person, limitations have lifted in most American regions. Just taking a walk around your neighborhood or town can make you feel more connected to people. Consider joining a club, or perhaps combining mental and physical self-care by joining an exercise class or gym. Of course, if health issues or simple preference prevent you from leaving your house often, you can socialize virtually by joining online forums and organizations. Connecting with people online has actually become much simpler since the pandemic.

2. Eat Cleanly

The fact is that your physical health does affect your mental health. If you’re consuming too much sugar or caffeine, you’ll naturally feel something of a crash when the initial “high” is over. Additionally, alcohol, as relaxing as it may initially feel, is a depressant, which means that it brings your mood down. While we’re not suggesting changing you diet entirely if you don’t want to, consider consuming more vegetables and water, as well as juice (without sugar added). Moving to a cleaner diet is better for your body, and the better you feel physically the
better you’ll feel mentally.

3. Engage Yourself Mentally

While it’s understandable if you want to simply watch television and movies after work, we do encourage engaging yourself mentally in other ways. Taking up a hobby can give you something positive to focus on when you’re feeling low, especially when it’s a productive hobby. Consider doing something small, like working on puzzles or perhaps trying to get experimental with recipes. Journaling can be both productive and deeply therapeutic. You may also want to consider taking a class locally, as this could not only teach you a new, productive skill—like drawing or pottery—but introduce you to new people.

4. Treat Yourself

There’s a difference between treating yourself and over-indulging. Every now and then, it can be good to treat yourself in small ways, while still maintaining self-control. Treating yourself can aid you in developing important aspects of your life. For example, if you’re trying to exercise more, consider treating yourself by buying that sports bra you were interested in. Perhaps treating yourself means picking up a book you really from the store. While we recommend setting a spending limit on your “treats” (only you can know your personal budget) giving yourself these small rewards simply for getting through the day can be a good thing.

Let’s be honest—life can be pretty challenging sometimes. But that doesn’t mean you should ever give up. Remember that people care about you, and there are resources available to help.

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