May is Mental Health Month, which is probably one of the most important months of the year. I think all of us can benefit from consideration for our mental health, whether we think we need it or not.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are so important to mental health. They serve to preserve our standards and protect our peace. We shouldn’t ever have to bear the burden of allowing people into our space who don’t respect the lines we set. Life is so much better without navigating the toxicity of those who don’t honor us.
Learn To Say No Without Guilt
One thing I’ve really learned in the last few months is saying “no” without feeling guilty. I’ve had so many requests for sitting and walking, and I want to accept each and every one. It’s a point of pride, and a win for my mental health, that I’ve learned to say no to the jobs that don’t serve me, don’t work with my schedule, or that I’m not comfortable accepting. Even better, I have stopped apologizing for saying no: I don’t have to be sorry for not being available.
Make Time For The People And Activities You Love
Period. Life can be pretty unbearable if it’s not filled with beautiful things and happy memories. One of my least pleasant traits is that I am happy to tuck up into cozy clothes, hide under a soft blanket and hermit forever. There are days when I really need to force myself to get out there, associate with family and friends, and have experiences. On Sunday, when the boys were gone, I put on a cute dress, and took myself on a date to the wildflower farm. I could have couch-rotted, but I’m so glad I took the time for me.
Ask For Help
Another of my more charming attributes is refusing to accept that I can’t do it all on my own. I hate delegating, and I hate asking for help. After all, I’m an independent woman, and I know how I want things done. This is, however, not at all sustainable, and it’s not good for our mental health. I’m learning (sometimes uncomfortably) that I need to rely on others in order to stay well. And when things are too overwhelming, it’s on me to reach out, whether it’s a partner, a friend, a doctor, or a therapist. We can’t do it all on our own, no matter how strong we are.
Eat. Move. Sleep.
For me, that’s the secret. I have to fuel my body, move my body, and then rest my body. Once I do these things, my brain is clear and my mindset is strong. This is what helps me get out of bed, brush my teeth, maintain my house, thrive at work, and be a good human. With this recipe for success, I can take on the world, preserve my mental health, and do anything.
What are your tips for maintaining your mental health?
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Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
All your points are spot on, but the one about the value of exercise and eating healthily really stood out to me. Fuel, move, rest — such a simple formula, yet so easy to neglect. I love how you connect it to functioning in everyday life, not just running. Total game changer for mental clarity!
Add to it fresh air and quiet time and you’ve got the perfect formula!
You list great ways for honoring mental health, Jenn. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and getting enough rest (my nemesis) are so important, yet ignored by so many.
I think we are all looking for an “easy” fix, and while these things aren’t hard, they do require consideration and forethought.
Just perfect. It is so important.
Sleep is where I’m lacking (thanks to my cat) but I try to stay active and make time for family and friends.
I’m terrible at sleep, too. Naps make me happy, though.