I can remember my 2nd in college at the University of Minnesota, being in a very dark place. To the outside world, everything looked good. But behind closed doors, I was stressed to the max, having painful headaches, and even found myself crying in the middle night. I thought leaving the pain of my childhood back in Denver would rid me of my past. Man was I wrong. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was certainly dealing with depression. I’m very thankful to have emerged from that difficult place in my life. I’m elated that we, as a society, are now paying more attention to our mental health.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which is a great opportunity to focus on how we can build resilience and take care of our mental health. Resilience refers to our ability to adapt and bounce back when faced with challenges or adversity. It is an important factor in maintaining good mental health, and there are many things we can do to build our resilience.
One important way to build resilience is to practice self-care. This means taking the time to prioritize our own needs and engage in activities that help us to feel happy and fulfilled. Self-care can take many forms, such as exercise, spending time with loved ones, engaging in hobbies or creative pursuits, and taking time to relax and unwind.
Another important factor in building resilience is having a strong support system. This can include friends, family, and mental health professionals who can offer support and guidance during difficult times. It is important to reach out for help when needed and to build relationships with people who can provide emotional support.
Finally, learning to manage stress is an important part of building resilience. Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes overwhelming it can have a negative impact on our mental health. There are many strategies for managing stress, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and engaging in relaxation activities like yoga or massage.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we encourage you to take the time to prioritize your mental health and build resilience. Remember that it is okay to ask for help when you need it, and that there are many resources available to support you.
If you are struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be helpful:
– National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org
– Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): www.samhsa.gov
– American Psychological Association (APA): www.apa.org
I hope that it has provided you with some valuable insights into building resilience and taking care of your mental health.
Be Inspired,
Dr. Inspiration