The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Proactive mental health approach can be simple as ABC
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but really every month should be. It’s no secret that since the start of the pandemic, nearly every category of mental health issues has steadily risen in their acuity. This includes alltime highs in anxiety and depression categories. Physical health issues and symptoms such hypertension, insomnia and headaches have increased as well.
Frequently, to talk to another person, be it family, friend or stranger, is to learn of various mental health problems they are experiencing at some level. In our personal and professional experiences, we have learned some basic proactive and responsive strategies that can help you in everyday life to feel and live better. Let’s simplify these tools as ABCS of proactive mental health:
Awareness: Be aware of your personal “weak links.” Is it aversion, anger, overindulgence in food or drink, jealousy, or some other pervasive issue? Select one struggle and focus on that one for the next week. Monitor the occurrence of the issue as it appears in your day. Use mindfulness to note it, take a breath and allow it to pass through your mind and body without overreacting.
Belong: Connect with others who are supportive. Lean into trusted people who can listen nonjudgmentally. Find others who are positive or even humorous in their disposition. Seek out those individuals more regularly, and, when possible, avoid naysayers, passive-aggressives and doom-and-gloomers.
Commit to daily, uplifting practices and rituals. Now is a great time of year to get outside, when possible, in nature. Can you start a positive morning ritual? This can be sitting quietly with a cup of tea or coffee reading something inspirational. Maybe you can start doing a brief guided meditation each day. Reconnect to activities that bring you joy.
A complete overhaul of your life is not required. In fact, it’s not advised because many times that can set you up for defeat. Instead, consciously start making a few tweaks beginning today. Beginning immediately will shift your outlook and boost your mental health. If your mental health issues are interfering with your daily functioning, seek professional help. There are many forms of assistance available if you’re willing to reach out.