Mental Health Break

So often we really don't think about our mental health. This is partly because the phrase mental health is connected to mental health disorders and there is still quite a stigma in our society about these types of disorders or illnesses. Mental health however, is much more than this. Mental health can either help us or hurt us in our thoughts, focus and concentration, physical illness, and emotions.

When we look at our mental health the questions to ask are: Am I getting at least 6 hours of uninterrupted sleep? Do I feel tired and drained even after a night of sleep? Do I stress eat? Am I able to focus on the task at hand? Do I have a regular exercise plan that I stick to? Do I spend a lot of time going in circles and feeling like I never accomplish anything?

If you are answering these questions and realizing that your life is in over-drive and you are not the one that is in the drivers' seat it is time to slow your life down and regain some control. Part of doing this is taking a mental health break. This is a break just for you to reflect, relax, repair, and revitalize.

Things you can do to take a mental health break is; going and getting a facial, or massage, you could also get a manicure or a pedicure, if you don't have the funds to do this give yourself a facial at home pamper yourself by soaking in a bubble bath. You can also get one of your favorite movies, a blanket and curl up on the couch and let yourself watch this movie without answering your phone, emails, twitter, or any other distraction that could happen. If you have kids then get a movie for all of you and put your phone away, your computer away, make some popcorn and cuddle with your kids on the couch and watch the movie. Give yourself the gift of time. By this I mean this 1 or 2 hour block is about you and what you do is because that is what you decide to do and not because your phone, computer, spouse or partner, boss or kids is telling you what to do. You are in charge of this 1 or 2 hour block.

It is important to learn to take care of yourself. It is impossible to take care of anyone else in your life if your own self care is suffering. This is because if you are running on low, you have nothing left to give someone else. Keep replenishing your tank by taking care of your mental health. You deserve this gift to yourself so go ahead.

For more information or help on improving your mental health please contact me