Strengthening Your Psychological Fortitude: Six Strategies for Mental Health Awareness Week
Revamped Guidance for Boosting Your Resilience: Tips from an Expert
Gearing up for Mental Health Awareness Month, we've got some practical advice from guest blogger, Lisa Sanger Blinn, LMSW, the Project Outcomes Lead for Healthy Minds, Healthy Communities. Since the past few years have brought a series of challenges, from weather disasters to the pandemic, it's high time to fortify our resilience.
Resilience, the ability to bounce back from hardships, is not about tackling tough times alone. Instead, it involves honing skills that help adapt and carry on, both physically and emotionally. Here are six tips to ignite your journey towards improved resilience.
- Take Care of Yourself: Pals can't cheer you up if they're feeling down themselves. First, take charge of your well-being, ensuring a good night's sleep, nutritious diet, and daily physical activities that kickstart your joy. Scribble down hobbies that light you up, and be sure to pencil them in your schedule.
- Revamp Your Self-Talk: When anxiety strikes, our inner critic can get loud. Listen for negative banter in your head, and actively replace it with positive reinforcements, such as "I've got this!" or "I'm up for the challenge."
- Embrace Community: Good fences might make good neighbors, but strong relationships do even better. Get to know your tribal members, and expand your network by volunteering or joining a faith community. Maintain connections with positive friends, as they serve as a bulwark during tough times.
- Shun Comparison: #SocialMedia may paint an unrealistic picture, but it's essential to focus on your life and aspirations. Embrace your journey, learn, and grow with pride.
- Value Your Experiences: You've already triumphed over numerous hurdles, so leverage those experiences to tackle future obstacles more confidently. Jot down your successful coping mechanisms to swiftly refer to when life throws a curveball.
- Don't Shy Away from Asking for Help: Asking for a helping hand is a display of strength, not vulnerability. Reach out for a listening ear or a helping hand when you need it, remembering that no one can hold all the answers.
Seeking Emotional Support:If you or someone you care about needs emotional support, contact the COVID-19 Support Line at 1-833-986-1919 (phone) or 832-479-2135 (text).
Lisa Sanger Blinn, LMSW, serves as the Project Outcomes Lead for Healthy Minds, Healthy Communities. The project, backed by The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD and funded by Harris County using American Rescue Program Act (ARPA) Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, equips community members with tools and training to bolster one another's resilience and emotional well-being. For project updates, reach out to [email protected].*
Additional Expert-Recommended Strategies to Boost Resilience
- Cultivate a Positive Mindset: Focus on the bright spots in your life and in challenging situations. Practice gratitude regularly.
- Develop a Support Network: Strengthen your bonds with family, friends, and colleagues. Join groups or clubs that align with your interests.
- Practice Self-Care: Engage in regular physical activity, prioritize sleep, and maintain a balanced diet.
- Learn from Adversity: Reflect on past struggles and how you overcame them to learn and grow.
- Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Break down complex issues into manageable parts and approach challenges with a flexible mindset.
- Embrace Mindfulness and Meditation: Regular meditation can help reduce stress levels. Experiment with guided meditation apps or community classes to get started.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break long-term objectives into smaller, attainable milestones. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way.
- Seek Professional Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to consult mental health professionals if you feel overwhelmed. They can provide personalized strategies tailored to your needs.
- To further enhance personal growth, consider volunteering for health-and-wellness or education-and-self-development programs, as they can provide valuable opportunities for mental health improvement.
- Expanding your horizons through science and exploration can also contribute to mental health resilience, as learning new things and challenging yourself fosters adaptability and a positive mindset.
- Finally, undertake regular self-care practices, such as mindfulness exercises and meditation, to ensure mental health stays integrated with your physical health, promoting an overall sense of well-being and resilience.
