In the United States, May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949. Caring for our mental health is important because it influences our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Our behaviors, emotions, and even our personal thoughts can be impacted by how we take care of ourselves and others. Small changes in our daily routines and conversations can make a big difference in our ability to express gratitude for others and most importantly for ourselves.
No matter what is on your agenda in the next few days, make sure you are creating time for yourself. Choose an activity on the list below to take one small step to establishing a healthier mindset.
10 Ways to Boost Your Mental Health
- Start a gratitude journal. Write down 2-3 things you’re grateful for every morning. Document achievements and other great memories too!
- Spend time with friends or family. If you cannot physically be with them, schedule a virtual hangout.
- Share memories and jokes. Laughter is one of the best medicines in life.
- Try something new. Try baking or test out a new dinner recipe. Watch a YouTube tutorial on how to play the guitar or learn to paint flowers.
- Be active for 30 minutes. Take a walk down the street, a quick workout, or play with your dog. Anything that increases your heart rate is sure to boost your mood too.
- Send a thank you note. Expressing our appreciation for others leaves positive impacts for both sides.
- Keep your house cool. Our best sleep happens when the temperature in your home is between 60 and 67 degrees. A great night’s sleep can do wonders for your energy levels.
- Go outside. Enjoy the sunshine. Vitamin D has been proven to be a mood booster.
- Listen to music. Completing household chores or cooking dinner? Turn music on in the background and add in a little dancing.
- Relax in a warm bath or shower. Allow yourself time to relax and relieve your aches or pains, finishing your day feeling refreshed.
- Disconnect from technology. Spend time off your phone and away from the TV. Pay attention to what is important.
Improving your mental strength through small actions can help you relieve personal stress while lifting the moods of those around you. We encourage you to try something new and check-in on a loved one or friend. Use this awareness month to create moments of self-appreciation.
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The team at Dan Wood cares about the comfort of our community and will continue to provide the resources and expertise to maintain the safety and proper sanitation of your home or business.
We recognize in the time of experiencing a health pandemic, care for mental health is extremely vital. In a recent Forbes article, How to recover from psychological aftershocks of lockdown during Mental Health Awareness Month, the author shares that our first line of defense is self-care. The article provides additional resources for caring for yourself, your family, and friends in the community. Click the article link to learn more about adjusting and finding resources to improve your mental health.