I love taking a day off for my mental health. I like how employers are offering those more and more...
I love taking a day off for my mental health. I like how employers are offering those more and more. It's important to take a break for your mental health. I can think of many times throughout my career journey when a mental health day would have benefited me greatly. What should one do on their mental health day? I asked around, talked to a few friends, counselors, and other experts, and put together this helpful list.
Walking is a simple yet powerful way to improve mental health. You can stroll through a park, hike a nearby trail, or just wander around your neighborhood. Walking helps reduce stress levels and provides a natural boost to your mood. Here are a few ideas on where you can take a walk.
The goal is to get some fresh air and clear your mind.
Yoga combines physical movement with deep breathing exercises. It's excellent for promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It's also great for the following reasons.
You can join a yoga class or follow an online session at home. The aim is to stretch your body and calm your mind.
Spending time in nature can have a positive effect on your mental wellbeing. Visit a local beach, forest, or botanical garden. There are many choices for you to consider when choosing to spend time in nature.
Nature's beauty can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed. The goal is to disconnect from daily stressors and reconnect with the natural world.
Playing games, whether video games or board games, can be a great way to relieve stress. Engage in your favorite pastime or try a new game with family or friends. Check around and see if your area has any of these types of amenities you can check out.
The objective is to have fun and distract yourself from negative thoughts.
Writing in a gratitude journal can improve your mood and overall mental health. Spend a few hours listing things you're thankful for. A couple of prompts to get you started are as follows.
Reflecting on positive aspects of your life helps shift focus away from mental health challenges. The goal is to cultivate a habit of gratitude and to help you keep track of the good things in your life.
Engaging in creative activities can be therapeutic and enjoyable. You can express yourself through art, music, writing, cooking, or any other form of creativity that sparks your imagination. Here are some ideas to get you started.
The focus is on the process rather than the result. Allow yourself to let go and have fun with your chosen activity.
Taking care of yourself is essential for your mental wellbeing. Use your mental health day to pamper yourself and indulge in some self-care activities. Here are a few ideas on how to treat yourself.
The goal is to nurture yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Spending quality time with loved ones can have significant benefits for your mental health. Reach out to a friend, family member, or significant other and plan an activity together. Here are some ideas on what you can do.
The objective is to strengthen your social connections and boost your mood through positive interactions.
Giving back to others can be incredibly fulfilling and beneficial for your mental health. Find a cause that resonates with you and volunteer your time for the day. Here are some ways you can make a difference.
The focus is on using your skills and time to make a positive impact.
Music has the power to uplift your spirits and reduce stress. Whether you prefer listening to soothing tunes or playing music yourself, it's a beneficial activity. Create a playlist of your favorite songs or play an instrument. The goal is to enjoy the healing power of music.
Self-care activities include anything that makes you feel good and recharges your energy. Take a relaxing bath, read a book, or pamper yourself with a spa day at home. The purpose is to prioritize your well-being and improve your mental health.
Spending time with a family member or friend can provide much-needed support. Share a meal, have a heart-to-heart conversation, or simply enjoy each other's company. The objective is to strengthen your emotional connection and feel supported.
Taking care of your mental health is crucial. Whether you're experiencing mental illness or just need a health day, prioritizing your mental health care can improve your mood and overall well-being. At Overcomers Counseling, we provide comprehensive mental health resources to support you through various mental health conditions. On World Mental Health Day and every day, let's commit to raising awareness about the importance of mental health care. Don't wait until you feel overwhelmed. Take proactive steps to address your mental health needs today. Click on our Colorado Springs anxiety counseling page to explore our therapy options and start your journey toward better mental health. Taking mental health days is essential for maintaining work-life balance and addressing mental health issues. Use these ideas to make the most of your next mental health day and enhance your overall well being.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
Yes, it's possible to use a combination of both coping strategies to manage stress effectively. In fact, employing a range of coping mechanisms can lead to better psychological health outcomes. Failing to address one's issues can have serious consequences, making it crucial to develop effective coping strategies.
This will depend on your individual needs but it's generally recommended that clients meet with their coach at least once per week for maximum effectiveness.
During mental health life coaching sessions, a trained professional will work with you to identify your goals, challenge negative thought patterns, and address self-sabotaging behaviors. You can expect to receive support and guidance in improving your mental health and creating a fulfilling life.
Once purchased, you will be provided with access to the material indefinitely. This means that you can come back at any point in time to review or complete any modules or assignments that you may have missed out on initially.
You can find a qualified life coach by asking for referrals from friends or colleagues, searching online directories or asking your professional network for recommendations.
Yes, some effective relaxation techniques include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and mindfulness meditation. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you.
