It can be tough dealing with all the negativity in the world. From the moment we wake up until the time we go to bed, it seems like everywhere we turn something or someone is trying to bring us down. The news is full of tragedy and heartbreak, our social media feeds are clogged with anger and hatred, and even our own families can be a source of stress and drama.
It’s no wonder that so many people find themselves struggling with stress, anxiety, and depression so it’s hard for them to remember that they need to take care of themselves first.
Here are six tips on how to protect your mental health and keep your stress levels in check.
Limit your exposure to negativity
You don’t have to completely remove yourself from all sources of negativity, but it’s important to limit your exposure. If the news is making you anxious or depressed, take a break from watching or reading it. Unfollow any social media accounts that make you feel angry or stressed, and try to spend more time offline in general. You can also limit your exposure to negativity by surrounding yourself with positive people who make you feel good.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that you can’t control everything. Some things are out of your hands, and worrying about them isn’t going to do any good. The things that you can control are worth your attention and energy, while you should let go of the rest.
Find healthy ways to cope with stress
Stress is a natural part of life, but it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with it. Exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature are all great ways to reduce stress. You can also try journaling or talking to a therapist about the things and situations that are causing you stress. At socalmentalhealth.com you can see how treatment centers have personalized programs to help with stress and anxiety. Each patient is different, so the professionals will make a plan that suits your needs.
On the other hand, avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms like drinking alcohol or overeating, as these can make your stress levels worse in the long run.
Make time for yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re making time for the things you enjoy, whether it’s reading, spending time with friends, or going for walks in nature. It’s also important to get enough sleep and exercise, as both of these can impact your mental health.
You might not have a lot of free time, but even taking 10 minutes out of your day to do something you enjoy can make a big difference. You can also try breaking up your day into smaller chunks of time so you can fit in a few moments here and there for yourself.
Practice self-compassion
It’s easy to be hard on yourself, but it’s important to practice self-compassion. This means being kind and understanding towards yourself, even when you make mistakes – which everyone makes because that is a human thing to do.
Try to treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would show to a friend. Cut yourself some slack, and be patient with yourself as you work towards your goals. Celebrate your successes, big and small.
Find a support system
Having a supportive network of family and friends is crucial for good mental health. These people can provide a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or simply someone to vent to when you’re feeling stressed. If you don’t have close family or friends, there are other options available, such as support groups or therapy.
It’s important to find people who understand what you’re going through and can offer helpful advice. Avoid people who are judgmental or dismissive, as they will only make your stress levels worse.
Set boundaries
Finally, it’s important to set boundaries, both with yourself and with others. If you’re constantly saying yes to things you don’t want to do, you’re going to end up feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Learn to say no, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries with others.
For example, if you’re not comfortable discussing your mental health with certain people, let them know. It’s okay to protect yourself and set boundaries as needed.
Therefore, it’s important to remember that you need to take care of yourself first and foremost. This means making time for the things you enjoy, practicing self-compassion, and finding a supportive network of family and friends. It’s also important to set boundaries both with yourself and with others.
If you can follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining good mental health! You will just need to find healthy ways to cope with stress and remember to be kind and understanding towards yourself.
