2020 was a rollercoaster of a year, and it’s safe to say that everyone is relieved that a new year has begun! After all, a new year means a fresh start; that’s why it’s important to move ahead with goals that benefit your body and your mental health.
While you probably have several goals to follow through this year, we recommend adding these three mental health goals to have a more balanced and calm year ahead!
Start With The Basics
It might sound obvious, but taking care of your body’s basic needs is essential for not just your physical health, but also your mental health. Eating on time, getting enough sleep, and ensuring you partake in physical activities all have multiple long-term benefits on your mental well-being.
Eating a nutritional meal can help you be more productive and boost serotonin levels, enabling you to stay happier and healthier! Additionally, ensuring you get the right amount of sleep can help you avoid chronic depression and anxiety.
And lastly, physical activity keeps you confident and mentally alert! You don’t have to do any strenuous exercise or burn off hundreds of calories if that’s not a goal. Simply partake in relaxing activities such as yoga or regular walks to keep your body active.
Keep In Touch
Many sociologists have suggested renaming social-distancing to physical distancing, simply because the idea of keeping humans from their social lives can be incredibly damaging to their mental health!
Humans are social creatures, and keeping in touch with friends and family can help us feel less isolated, especially during times of crisis. Try to go out and have controlled social meetings with your friends, following physical distancing rules. Or, if that’s difficult, try to connect via online platforms and video-sharing apps. It’s important to talk to people and stay together no matter the circumstances.
Start Therapy
While it’s essential to stay social and take care of yourself, if you’re suffering from severe mental anguish due to depression or anxiety, it’s important to seek professional help.
There’s only so much self-care you can partake in before you need to rely on professional support that can help you navigate your negative and intrusive thoughts. There is no shame in struggling, and seeking help has proven to help patients in the long-term.
If you’re looking for help with seeking a depression therapist in Alabama, get in touch with David E. Myers, Ph.D. His practice focuses on approaching mental health through conversation, diagnosis, and effective strategies that extend beyond the session. Contact us today to set up an appointment!