Mental Health Month Day 5
May 5, 2007 by Alicia Sparks, Mental Health Notes
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
On the fifth day of Mental Health Month, I want to remind you that “mental health” doesn’t exclusively refer to diagnosed mental health conditions (such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia). Mental health refers to the overall health of your mind, your brain, your emotions, etc. and so forth.
With that being said, everyone has to deal with mental health issues from time to time. The most offensive culprit? STRESS.
We all experience stress at various times. When we’re late for work, when the kids are screaming, when the laundry and dishes are in competition to see whose pile can reach the ceiling first…
In the article 5 Steps to Finding and Maintaining Balance, Dale V. Atkins, Ph.D. outlines five steps to taking a step back from a situation and managing stress.
1. Self — How is my body reacting to this situation? Is this good for me and my well-being?
2. Support — What do I need to do to get the help I need to get through this situation? Are my resources being drained or filled through interaction with this person?
3. Surroundings — How can my environment nurture and create calm? Am I keeping a fresh outlook by staying grounded in the natural world?
4. Stimulation — Am I keeping myself mentally engaged and challenged? Is life interesting and fulfilling?
5. Savor — Am I reflecting on the essence and joys of what this situation can bring? Am I doing the best I can do to be aware and appreciate what’s happening today?
Dr. Atkins is also the author of Sanity Savers (among many other books) in which she further discusses the importance of pausing to reflect on life and how to get through each day and maintain sanity.
If you’re not up for a new book purchase, still be sure to give the five steps a try. Manage your stress and your mental health.
