May is mental health awareness month and because statistically 1 in 5 people suffer from a mental health condition I figured we should be talking about it more. As we all know, there is a mental health crisis as a result of the pandemic the past 2 years, so that statistic I mentioned above could even be higher.
I’m not intimidated by this topic because I have extensive experience in treating mental health disorders as I worked for almost 5 years in a psychiatric inpatient hospital setting and primarily worked with adolescents suffering from acute eating disorders. I’ve been a dietitian for almost 15 years and the majority of my work has been in the mental and behavioral health field. While, I’m not currently working in the field I still have a passion for being a mental health advocate.
Today I’m sharing 10 strategies I use to help me manage my stress, anxiety, and yes depression at times. If I’m not taking care of myself it makes it really challenging for me to show up for my family, so I make a point to prioritize my well-being. Here are 10 things I do to boost my mental health.
EXERCISE
This one is obvious, but it really is my #1 way to combat my anxiety. I’m constantly switching up my workouts to keep them fresh and something I enjoy and look forward to. I always feel significantly better after movement.
NUTRITION
It’s no secret that food and mood are closely related and the effects that food have on mental health are powerful. Prioritizing your diet for the sake of mental health is essential. Balanced, colorful, and nutrient rich meals along with taking essential vitamins and minerals to fill in the gaps. PSA: get your labs checked so you know what and how much to take. Proper hydration also falls into this category and plays a HUGE role in how we feel.
SAUNA
I miss the sauna in our old house, but have found a place to go for an infrared sauna sess. I’m trying to go 1-2 x week. A great way to speed up detoxification pathways and relax. I love listening to a book or podcast like I sweat it out!
HAPPY LIGHT
This light is right by my sink and I turn it on first thing in the morning while I get ready. While it’s getting lighter much earlier these days, the sun is still not consistently out in WA. My Happy Light gives me what I need on mornings I’m not able to get outside for a walk first thing in the morning. It helps improve mood and energy levels.
FACIALS/MASSAGE/NAILS
Self care baby! It’s not selfish. These are things that bring me joy and give me some ”me” time. I schedule these appointments in monthly if I can and I come home refreshed and recharged!
DATE NIGHTS
We have not been doing these like at all the past year with the baby and the move, but are committed to making this a priority this summer. Kinsley is older and we are settled in our new home, so no excuses. This is so important and healthy for us to have a little time away from the house and kids for one on one time.
READING
I love to read and listen to books and it really helps me relax. I have been obsessed with reading on my Kindle even though I can still listen to a book so much faster than reading. I use the Libby app to borrow books from the library which is so nice to not be spending so much $$ on books. I also feel less pressure to stick with a book if I don’t like it if I didn’t pay for it. Life is too short to read a book you’re not loving.
QUALITY SLEEP
This is something I have really gotten into lately. My Oura ring has been fun to track my sleep and establish healthy sleep habits. I have more energy, exercise stronger, and eat better when I get quality and adequate sleep. It’s really important for overall health and wellbeing.
BATHS
One of my favorite ways to relax at the end of the day. Similar to the sauna, a hot bath with epsom salt and baking soda can help increase detoxification pathways and leave you relaxed and ready for a good night’s sleep. I use 2 cups epsom salt + 1/2 c baking soda + essential oils in my bath. I also like listening to a book or watcha show in the bath to multi-task.
FRIENDSHIPS
Call, text, send letters/gifts, girls trips, etc. I have some amazing friends in my life and I feel so lucky to have those close friendships. Like any relationship, friendships take work and effort and my friends mean a lot to me, so I make a point to always be in touch…even if just a text to say hey. Having these friendships in my life is crucial for my mental health. Check in on your friends 😉
How do you take care of your mental health? Drop your tips in the comments section.
xx,
