Mental health care is not something we think of doing for ourselves everyday. However, simple strategies can be used to contribute to good mental health the same way that brushing your teeth every day can contribute to good dental health! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Having Healthy Boundaries: Boundaries are what helps us define what we want to let in and what we want to keep out. Often, before we start the intensive work of therapy in treatment, we aren’t sure what we would put in either category. As we learn about ourselves and what we need to do to protect our mental health, we learn that some behaviors from people are okay and some aren’t. Healthy boundaries help our mental health by helping us have more confidence about our self-worth and how we are treated, keeps stressful people as well as situations at bay, and helps us maintain at least one area of calm during the day.
- Creating Balance Throughout The Day: We have 24 hours every day. At least 6 to 8 of those are spent sleeping. That leaves us with as much as 16 hours each day. It’s a lot of time, but it’s also not a lot of time. We can pack a lot into a day if we want to, but we can’t always want to. We learn through recovery when to say enough is enough. Make sure your day includes time for self-care, peace, and quiet, so you can stay present.
- Staying Sedentary And Isolated: Whatever the mental health disorder is which brought you to treatment, it has already taken up enough of your life. Depression can leave you feeling unmotivated. Anxiety can leave you feeling too afraid. Addiction can be isolating and keep you away from life. Now that you’re recovering, there is a whole world to be discovered. Use some of your time during the day to get outside, explore a little, and get your body moving.
- Positive Thinking: Nobody says you have to be a positive Polly all day long! Being a negative Nancy from the time you wake up to the time you go to sleep isn’t healthy either. Remember to check in with some gratitude or a quick mindfulness meditation during the day. You’ll help your brain stay out of the doldrums while taking the time to notice any underlying issues coming up which you may need to address in your next therapy session
Avalon By The Sea provides primary care treatment for those in need of recovery from mental health disorders as well as substance use disorders. Our beautiful estate serves as the private and peaceful grounds clients need to feel safe, secure, and serene as they recover. For a confidential assessment and more information on our programs, call 1 (888) 958-7511 today.
