World Mental Health Day is recognized on Saturday, October 10^th. Bringing awareness to mental health is imperative because the topic has become more prevalent during times of increased uncertainty. The pandemic has caused many of us to experience thoughts of panic, worry, fear, and other negative thoughts which impact our daily lives. It is so important for us to recognize negative thoughts, so that we can stop them in their tracks, take a deep breath, exhale, and start to transform our thoughts into positive. I know it may seem easier said than done; but if we integrate this tactic to stop negative thinking, then we can better manage our mental health.

Here are some helpful tips to manage mental health:

Stop, Collaborate and Listen: In the words of Vanilla Ice, “Stop” means to stop yourself in your tracks when your mind begins to race and overthink. Once you recognize your mind beginning to spiral with negative thoughts, stop yourself in that moment. “Collaborate” means to tune into both sides of your brain– emotional and logical. Tell yourself that you recognize the negative thoughts and remind yourself that you are safe. Allow the emotional side of your brain to banish the negative thoughts and allow your logical side to divert from them completely. Then, start to “Listen” to the sounds around you. Become conscious and aware of your breathing, focus in on the sounds around your home or surrounding area, and begin to calm your mind. It may seem silly to reference “Ice, Ice, Baby,” but trust me, it works!

Practice Gratitude: It may seem challenging to practice gratitude when your world seems to be falling apart, but try setting aside time to think about all the things you are grateful for. This can be done by journaling, meditating, or walking.  If you’re journaling, write daily gratitude lists of things you are grateful for that day. If you’re meditating, allow your mind to focus, and stay balanced and centered by internalizing your favorite place. If you’re walking, notice the beauty around you from the trees, birds and other animals, and take deep breaths. Shifting our energy and focus to natural beauty is a great way to feel calm and centered. There are so many ways to practice gratitude, and once you incorporate a practice into your daily routine, you will start to feel better mentally and emotionally.

Know That You Are Not Alone: We can feel so alone and isolated when we allow ourselves to be consumed with our negative thoughts. Overthinking and overanalyzing our thoughts will make us feel extremely closed-off from the world and the people around us. As hard as it may be, please reach out and talk to someone – whether it be a professional, family member, or friend, you will feel so much better once you take the leap of faith and talk to someone. There are other options to talk and meet people, such as participating in clubs, organizations, and support groups. Please understand that you are not alone. Even during the darkest times there are people who love and support you, and will root for you to see the brighter days ahead.

Do What Sparks Joy: In the words of Marie Kondo, “What Sparks Joy?” Make time to do things that you love and try to incorporate at least one activity daily. Whether it be to take a relaxing bath, practice yoga or a workout, watch your favorite movie, or do something creative – giving yourself time to incorporate a positive daily activity will boost your mental health. Often times, we get so busy with work and taking care of our families and/or pets that we lose sight of doing things for ourselves. Let me make this clear, it is NOT selfish to incorporate “me” time – it is absolutely necessary! Please find time to incorporate an activity that allows you to feel happy, relaxed and centered.

I hope that these helpful tips will improve managing your mental health. Now more than ever, it is time for us to normalize and prioritize mental health. Be sure to check-in with yourself daily and assess your thoughts. Your mental health is essential to leading a positive, healthy life.