According to the World Health Organization, the pandemic triggered a 25% increase in mental health concerns, specifically in the area of anxiety and depression. Loneliness, fear of infection and/or dying, loosing loved ones, financial worries, and fear of the future are all cited to be some of the top triggers for this. In a world of so much uncertainty, it is important to do all you can to guard your mental health. We can’t always control what happens in the world, but we can often control how we react to it. If you prioritize your mental health, you are able to look after your physical well-being, maintain solid relationships, and create balance in all aspects of your life. Investing time in your mental health leads to long-term benefits. Here are some habits to prioritize your mental health.
Daily Gratitude Reflection
Gratitude can make you feel less stressed, anxious, and depressed. It is critical to recognize how much you have in your life, whether it is food on the table, a steady salary, or consistent support system. It is important to rejoice in all circumstances and remind yourself that every day is a day that the Lord has made.
A habit to incorporate within your daily routine is to write down what you are grateful for each and every day. Sitting down and writing what you are grateful for allows you to visualize the best parts of your day. Whether it be meeting up with a childhood friend or finding a new go-to recipe, reflecting on the good will allow you reflect on your countless blessings
Many influencers have started using the five-minute journal. The five-minute journal is a notebook that you can use to start your day to focus on the positive and become more mindful. Each day the journal guides you down a path of gratefulness by asking questions such as what you are grateful for, what would make today great, highlights of the day, and what did I learn today. Writing down your blessings will allow you to recognize how many blessings are in your life.
Be Intentional with Your Screen Time
The use of digital devices is linked to overall well-being. Too much screen time can lead to psychological problems, a lack of emotional stability, and a greater risk for depression and anxiety.
Instead of staying inside online, be sure to spend some time outdoors soaking in the sun. Getting vitamin D helps lower your cortisol, which decreased the chances of becoming stressed. Enjoying the outdoors on a beautiful day is a simple and effective way to improve your day. Plan a beach day or find a hike on the internet to excite you to spend more time outdoors.
If you don’t have time for a day trip, be sure to take at least thirty minutes to be active. This could be through doing a twenty minute Blogilates workout video or simply walking up and down your stairs. Check out this article, for more at home workout inspiration. According to the Cleveland Clinic, exercise is a powerful stress reliever. Incorporating movement into your daily routine uplifts and boosts your overall mood.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer has the power to heal. By praying, you are allowing God to calm your troubled heart. Prayer is the best way to communicate your afflictions to the Lord and lay your struggles in His hands. One of two things will happen when you pray. Either, you will eventually see the things that you prayed for manifest before your eyes. Or, God will give you peace and strength to endure the storm.
"O Lord my God, I cried for your help, and you have healed me."
Often, it is easy to become hopeless when struggling with mental health. Letting the peace of Christ rule in your heart will comfort you. Prayer also elicits a relaxation response that lowers blood pressure and factors heightened by stress. Letting go and letting God truly does improve your mental health.
Prioritizing Habits to Protect Your Mental Health
Prioritizing your overall well-being is key to living a happy and healthy life. Consistency is key. Without it, you may not see any changes within your mental health. Be sure to prioritize your mental health to begin to see drastic change in your thoughts and mood.
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