Regardless of mild or severe mental health symptoms, mental health professionals, such as a psychiatrist, can help you navigate your emotions and lay the groundwork for better mental health. Butthey are not the only key people to changing your mental health.
Practicing self-care through various activities can help maintain good mental health. Here are some self-care tips for better mental health straight from a psychologist to help you in your journey:
Create a Routine
Creating a routine and sticking to it prevents anxiety and poor decision-making that comes with feeling overwhelmed. Try setting a fixed sleep schedule, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, that fits your daily responsibilities and makes time for rest.
Set Boundaries
The demands of work, family, and social life can all take a toll, but setting strong boundaries for yourself can help prevent mental exhaustion. Be mindful of how much energy you need to stay balanced and how much time you will allocate daily to various responsibilities. Make sure you communicate these boundaries to those close to you that rely on your help and adjust them as needed.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
If mental exhaustion, stress, and overwhelm are common feelings, relaxation techniques can be beneficial to de-stress and manage symptoms of depression or anxiety. Popular methods include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness activities. Yoga and tai-chi have both been seen to improve mental and physical well-being.
Connect with Others
Maintaining a strong social circle is essential for better mental health. People who are available to listen, support, and share are key components to feeling connected and understood.
Focus on the Present
While it’s important to plan for the future, constantly mulling over the past or worrying about what’s to come puts immense pressure on your mental health. Constant fear and worry can lead to feelings of breakdown. To avoid this, focus on the present and work towards living in the present moment.
Keeping a Journal
Writing about your emotions and thoughts can help you tap into how you feel when words can’t describe it. A journal can become your safe place to be honest with yourself and explore what’s going on in your life without judgment. It can even help you find direction and purpose by reflecting on your past experiences and staying present at the moment.
Take Time for Yourself
Making time for yourself can be particularly nice when feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Self-care doesn’t have to be an expensive spa day, but something that fits your budget. Whether that’s a walk in the park, reading a book, or taking a relaxing bath, use whatever you need to turn off outside noise and make yourself feel special.
Be Kind to Yourself
Talking to yourselves in a kind tone, practicing self-forgiveness, and rewarding yourself for the little victories are all great ways to practice self-compassion. You’d never put yourself in a situation where criticism was the only possible outcome, so why speak to yourself that way?
Wrap Up
All these self-care tips are important, but the most important tip is always to seek help if you’re struggling. If you’re having difficulty managing your mental health, set up a meeting with a therapist or psychiatrist in Manila. They can help you gain insight into your feelings and experiences and offer guidance on implementing healthier practices in your life.
You may utilize telemedicine applications like NowServing to find the best and nearest psychiatrist in your area. Register for an account at nowserving.ph to get started.
