Create Balance to Improve Your Mental Health

Written by Jordan Meehan, LCSW

If there is one thing that people have started to pay closer attention to these past few years, it’s mental health. The increasing awareness and conversation around mental health has shed light on how truly important it is to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. This provides a good opportunity to reflect on all you have learned about yourself and what you need to improve your mental health with balance.

A SHIFT IN PERSPECTIVE

Common Sentiments of the Times

You have probably heard or felt a few of the following sentiments in recent times:

• “Time is dragging on but going so fast at the same time.”
• “I can’t believe it’s already [insert month].
• “I’ve never felt more tired and burned out than I do now.”
• “This year feels like a blur.”
• “What am I doing with my life?”

Daily stressors, social justice issues, and the fast pace of modern life have contributed to a higher level of emotional and mental fatigue, particularly post-pandemic. As each day has passed, you may have heard more about the importance of taking breaks, self-care, creating a routine, being social, etc. While these things are all very important, you may have discovered it has been challenging to prioritize these things because they all seem to require more time and energy.

Testing Priorities and Discovering What Matters

The events of the past few years have tested people’s priorities. The ways in which people view the world around them are changing. As a result, there have been opportunities to reflect on what is and is not necessary to live a fulfilling life.

Taking care of your mental health means leaning on the things that are most important to you. Each person has a set of values that when acted upon, lead to positive feelings and a sense of contentment and fulfillment. To improve your mental health with balance, you must establish harmony between your responsibilities, needs, wants, and values. Developing this balance happens through self-reflection, identification of needs, and taking action.

 

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REFLECT, IDENTIFY, AND ACT TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WITH BALANCE

Reflecting on Time and Energy to Help Create Balance for Your Mental Health

Have you taken the opportunity to reflect lately on what gets your time and energy? Take a moment today, tomorrow, or this weekend to simply think about how you have spent your time recently. Remember, time and energy are in short supply for many people. Thus, identifying what gets your time and energy will help you understand where you might need to make a few adjustments.

Upon reflecting, what were the results? Are you content with how much energy and time you dedicated to work, social engagements, family time, and personal care and activities? If you notice that you are unhappy with the results, try asking yourself what you would like to start focusing on more. Write it down! Create an intentions list. Talk to a loved one about what you have discovered. It can be difficult to break unhealthy time habits, but with effort and deliberate action, you can lead a more fulfilling life.

Identifying Needs and Seeking Support

Another component of developing balance to improve your mental health is understanding and identifying your needs. Ask yourself questions like:

• How am I today?
• How am I feeling?
• Is there anything that I need?
• Do I need support from someone?

These questions are foundational in helping you pinpoint areas of your life that might need more attention. For instance, if you realize that you are feeling overwhelmed, it might be beneficial to reach out to a friend or a mental health professional. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a proactive step towards better mental health.

Acting on Your Discoveries

Ultimately, you are the only one who can make the choice to improve your mental health. While you can’t control everything that impacts how you feel, there are always choices that you can make to find a version of balance that works for you.

Practical Steps to Take:

1. Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of normalcy and control. Include time for work, relaxation, exercise, and social activities.
2. Set Boundaries: Whether working from home or in an office, setting clear boundaries between work time and personal time is crucial.
3. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that relax you. This could be anything from reading a book, taking a bath, to going for a walk.
4. Stay Connected: Regular contact with loved ones can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Even virtual connections can make a big difference.
5. Seek Professional Help: If you find that self-care and support from friends and family are not enough, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

EMBRACING A HEALTHIER FUTURE

Adjust and Generate Balance for Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is an ongoing process. It requires regular reflection and adjustment to ensure that your needs are being met. By reflecting on how you spend your time, identifying your needs, and taking deliberate action, you can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

The Power of Community

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. The challenges you face may be more common than you think. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can provide new insights and support.

Looking Ahead with Hope

As you move forward in life, it’s essential to carry the lessons you have learned along the way. Embrace the importance of mental health, prioritize self-care, and maintain a supportive network. By doing so, you can foster resilience and a deeper sense of well-being, regardless of what the future holds.

LET RESTORATIVE COUNSELING’S TEAM HELP YOU ON YOUR PATH TO CREATE BALANCE FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH.

Taking care of your mental health is a multifaceted endeavor that involves reflection, identification of needs, and proactive actions. By prioritizing what truly matters and seeking support when necessary, you can navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and satisfaction. Schedule an appointment today to get started!