words Al Woods
The COVID-19 virus isn’t the only significant change to everyday life over the past few years. 2020 highlighted and exposed many political, social, economic, and environmental challenges that have ultimately sparked increased stress, anxiety, and depression. With the resolutions to these issues seemingly years away, all you can do is learn to adapt to the changes and prioritize mental health. Below are some suggestions.
Go To Therapy
There was a time when going to therapy was taboo. Therapy was described as a medical solution for individuals deemed “crazy.” Fortunately, times have changed as more people realize how talk therapy can assist with easing overwhelming emotions, coping with trauma, or simply navigating everyday life.
You’re probably wondering, “Do I need therapy?” However, everyone could use therapy during these uncertain times. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a mental illness or aren’t having the easiest time adjusting to the many changes going on, a therapist can provide you with tools to get through. So, prioritize your mental health this year by finding a suitable therapist and scheduling a few visits.
Get Outside
It may be cold outside but staying indoors can impact our mental health more than we think. It can cause changes in your sleep patterns, depression, mood swings, and social isolation. Make an effort to get outside of your house every day. Whether you sit on your porch and take in the sights, go for a stroll, or plan a small (and safe) gathering with friends and family, it will boost your mood and ease mental health symptoms.
Stop Overthinking
If the global health crisis has taught us anything, it’s that we control very little. Rapid and constant change appears to be the norm for now. No matter how much you try to plan and prepare for the unexpected, you can’t predict or control what will happen next. Having an “if this, then that” mindset will drive you crazy.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a plan to sustain a decent lifestyle; however, don’t overthink it. Create a plan, stay informed, adjust as needed, and let go of the rest. Maintaining this mindset will ease stress and anxiety and improve your mental well-being.
Lend A Helping Hand
Sometimes you become so consumed with your issues that you forget that others are going through similar or worse problems. There are people facing eviction or foreclosure with nowhere else to live. Some people can’t find gainful employment while others are homeless and hungry. You can take your mind off your problems and prioritize your mental health by lending a helping hand.
Of course, you can’t resolve everyone’s troubles yourself, but there are multiple ways to give back. You can donate canned goods, old clothes, or first-aid supplies to a nearby shelter. You can volunteer at a school, church, or community center and assist with programs for children and families. If you know someone personally that’s having a difficult time, consider ways to help them overcome the challenges.
Identify And Avoid Triggers
Another way to prioritize your mental health in 2022 is to clearly understand your emotional triggers so you can avoid or reduce them. A trigger is a person, place, or thing that prompts overwhelming feelings. It could be watching the news for several hours a day or just before going to bed. Social media triggers some people, while others are overwhelmed by toxic personalities.
Whatever gets your feelings in a bunch should be reduced or eliminated. Stick to 30 minutes of local news, take a mental health break from social media, or cut back on the time you spend with toxic people.
If you’re suffering from mental health problems during these uncertain times, you’re not alone. While the hope is that the worst of the chaos has passed, no one can predict the future. If you’re going to get through 2022 and beyond, you must prioritize your mental wellness. Using suggestions like those listed above, you’ll find that managing your emotions and achieving happiness is more manageable.
