Accepting mental illness
- We need to come to terms that a mental illness is normal like any other medical condition
- What is not normal is its stigmatization
- Instead, let’s reach out to our brothers/sisters in distress and help them out of their distress
Self value
- Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism.
- Make time for your hobbies and favorite projects, or broaden your horizons.
- Do a daily crossword puzzle, plant a garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument or become fluent in another language.
Take care of your body
- Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to:
- Eat nutritious meals
- Avoid smoking and vaping
- Make sure to be well hydrated at all times
- Exercise as it helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods
- Get enough sleep. Researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to a high rate of depression in college students.
Surround yourself with good people
- People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network.
- Make plans with supportive family members and friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new people, such as a club, class or support group.
- Make sure not to keep to yourself
Share your time
- Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else.
- You’ll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need and it’s a great way to meet new people
- There no better way to feel great about yourself when extending a helping hand
Learn how to deal with stress
- Make peace with the fact that stress is a part of life.
- Practice good coping skills: You may try Tai Chi, exercising, taking a nature walk, playing with your pet or trying journal writing as a stress reducer.
- Also, remember to smile and not take life to seriously.
- Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body and reduce stress.
Quiet your mind
- Try meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer.
- Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve your state of mind and outlook on life.
- In fact, research shows that meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy.
Set realistic goals
- Decide what you want to achieve academically, professionally and personally, and write down the steps you need to realize your goals.
- Aim high, but be realistic and don’t over-schedule.
- You’ll enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you progress toward your goal.
Break up the monotony
- Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace from time to time can perk up a tedious schedule.
- Alter your jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk in a different park, hang some new pictures or try a new restaurant.
Avoid dependence to substances
- Keep alcohol use to a minimum and avoid other drugs.
- Sometimes people use alcohol and other drugs to “self-medicate” but in reality, alcohol and other drugs only aggravate problems.
Get help when you need it
- Seeking help is a sign of strength not a weakness.
- It is important to remember that treatment is effective.
- People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives.
