As we come into the new year, it is important to think about how we can promote positive mental health. Mental health is becoming increasingly important to cultivate in our fast-paced world.
There are many ways that we can help promote positive mental health among ourselves and amongst others. Some examples include:
Self care
Self care helps us take some time for ourselves, focus on our needs and take care of ourselves. We can practise self-care in many ways, the best methods will be personal to you, but some examples include practising a form of exercise you enjoy, listening to your favourite music or journaling.
Open communication
Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health. Destigmatise talking about your well-being by sharing your own experiences with people you trust and listen empathetically to others.
Socialising
Having a strong support system around us is vital. Lean on others for support and be there for them in return. Listening to other people’s issues encourages empathy and understanding, and you may bond over mutual feelings.
Practise gratitude
Appreciating the positive aspects of our life helps boost our mood and encourages positive mental thoughts.
Set realistic goals
Set achievable, meaningful goals for yourself and break them into small manageable steps. This helps provide a sense of purpose and a sense of accomplishment when you reach these milestones, however small they may be.
Stress management techniques
Stress relievers such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga all benefit our well-being by focusing our attention on the present moment, instead of getting caught up in worrisome thoughts.
Cultivate a positive environment that supports mental health- Encourage workplace wellness programs, advocate for a healthy work-life balance among your friends and community, and foster a culture of kindness and understanding in the workplace and the home.
Paying attention to our mental well-being as we step into the new year is extremely important and it is something all of us should strive to do for ourselves and for others around us. By taking small steps to take care of our mental health, we are creating a more positive and inclusive environment for ourselves and others.