Mental health is just as important as physical health. Yet many of us don’t spend enough time taking care of our mental well-being.
How can you start prioritizing your mental health? Here are some things you can do — today! — to treat yourself with more compassion and improve your mood.
Beat negative self-talk
If your friend made a mistake at work, would you tell her she’s just not smart enough? More likely, you’d encourage her and point out all the things she does well.
Most of us are happy to give loving support to others — but when it comes to talking to ourselves? Too often, there’s a mean voice in our heads telling us everything we do is wrong.
That negative self-talk can increase stress and depression. It can interfere with your success and relationships with others.
We can learn to be kinder to ourselves. These tips will help you push past the habit of negative self-talk.
- Remember that you’re human: Nobody is perfect, and we all make mistakes. Instead of being too hard on yourself , think about what you could do differently next time. Learn from the experience, then let yourself move on.
- Treat yourself like a friend: You didn’t get the job you applied for, and now you’re lost in self-doubt. What would you tell a friend in that situation? You did the best you could. There will be other opportunities. Look in the mirror and say those things to yourself. It might feel unnatural at first, but it gets easier with practice.
- Reach out to others: If you’re having trouble being kind to yourself, turn to a caring friend or loved one. They can help you see the situation more clearly. Listen to how they talk to you with compassion so you can learn how to say it to yourself.
- Make a list: What are you good at? What are you proud of? Write down the things you like about yourself and what you do well. Read over your list when you’re spiraling.
- Reframe your thoughts: Pay attention to the harsh things your inner critic tells you. Then, turn those thoughts around. Try these reframes:
Instead of: I always mess everything up.
Say: One mistake is just one mistake. I’ll do it differently next time.
Instead of: Nobody likes me.
Say: Not everyone has to like me, and there are people in my life who love me for who I am.
Instead of: I don’t deserve it.
Say: I’m worthy, and I deserve good things.
Instead of: I’m not good enough.
Say: I’m doing my best.
5 ways to boost your mental health right now
Want to start improving your mental health? There’s no time like the present! Here are 5 small things you can do today to give your mental well-being a boost.
- Go to bed earlier: Sleep and mood go hand in hand. If you haven’t been getting 7-8 hours a night, head to bed 15 minutes earlier tonight.
- Eat a vegetable: Good nutrition benefits your brain and body. Add one extra serving of vegetables to your meals today. (Then keep it up tomorrow!)
- Move your body: Physical activity can quickly improve your mood — and support your mental health over the long term. Take a 10-minute walk or do some stretches at home.
- Practice gratitude: Reflecting on what makes you thankful is a great stress-buster. Write down 3 things you’re grateful for before going to bed tonight.
- Stay connected: Our relationships with other people can bring us joy and improve well-being. Text or call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while.
Contact us
Need to schedule a checkup or find a new doctor? MLK Community Healthcare has the right care for everyone in your family. Call 424-529-6755 today to make an appointment.