Maintaining your mental health is a lot like staying physically fit: it requires a little personal effort every day.
Here are some simple ways to practice mental fitness:
Learn how to cope with negative thoughts:
Negative thoughts can be insistent and loud: don't let them take over.
Distract yourself or comfort yourself if you can't solve a problem right
away. Try seeing the issue from all sides rather than from just one
point of view.Be in the present: When you're out for a walk or socializing, turn off the cell phone and take in all the sights and sounds around you. Smell the roses!
"Collect" positive emotional moments: Make a point of thinking about those times when you've felt pleasure, comfort, tenderness, confidence or other positive emotions.
Enjoy hobbies: A hobby helps bring balance to your life. You're doing something because you want to, rather than because you have to. No pressure. It's a form of mental stimulation too.
Treat yourself well: It could be a good meal, a bubble bath, a movie, or just sitting in the park enjoying nature. Small daily treats have a cumulative effect.
Get exercise: Regular physical activity is good for the mind. It can even reduce depression and anxiety. Joining an exercise group or gym is even better because it connects you with others.
For more information, please visit the Canadian Mental Health Association website.
For local assistance, please contact Leduc Mental Health Services at 780-986-2660.
