Mentally Healthy

Our whole country has gone through incredible stress in the last two years. We have dealt with Covid, inflation, high gas prices, political division, Supreme Court controversies, supply chain shortages and foreign wars.

It’s no wonder that psychologists and other mental health workers have been inundated with people seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health issues.

Practicing good self-care is essential to prevent these emotional problems.

Some areas to focus on include:

• Health – One of the most important areas is staying physically healthy. This means being physically active, eating healthy foods, sleeping well, spending time outdoors, and keeping regular physician follow-ups.
• Role – What is your role in life, and is it the one you would choose? Are you the pleaser, the caretaker, the problem solver?
• Boundaries – If we are not setting appropriate boundaries in our lives, it is very likely that others are taking advantage of that, intentionally or not.
• Solitude – As humans, we all require interactions with others. No one wants to be alone. However, we all need some periods of solitude, where we get to tune out the rest of the world, at least for a while.
• Relations – Take a look at your closest relationships. If any of these are toxic do what you can to minimize them. Spend more of your time with others who are affirming.
• Structure – Having structure to your day can reduce stress. We can be flexible, but at least have a plan of how we intend to spend our time.
• Self-Esteem – A realistic view of yourself is essential. No one likes grandiose, selfish people. However, dwelling on any negative self-traits is harmful.
• Contributing – Making others happy, and doing for others unselfishly makes us happy and in turn, content.
• Rewards – When we have worked hard, accomplished difficult tasks, and fulfilled our responsibilities, it’s important to feel confident about rewarding ourselves.
• Spiritual – We all differ in our views, but it is important to have a sense of spirituality and meaning in life.
• Goals – What are you working toward? How do you know when you’ve gotten there? Having goals gives us a sense of purpose in life and provides motivation.

Good self care can be a buffer from all that is going on around us.  Now that you know how, begin today to take good care of yourself.

Rollin S Rhodes PhD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Ask for a free consult:

https://rsrhodesphd.com/contact/

https://blogs.webmd.com/webmd-doctors/20180702/when-theres-just-no-time-for-self-care

https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/the-importance-of-self-care-during-difficult-times/

Disclaimer – This site is for informational and educational purposes only. The information is not intended to assess, diagnose, or treat any medical or mental health condition. Reading these articles does not constitute a patient-therapist relationship. Any decisions or actions taken by a reader are fully the responsibility of the reader. If therapy is required, see a qualified licensed provider. If there is a risky or emergency situation, contact your provider, Emergency Room, or call 988.

Sometimes we see friends, relatives, or even coworkers emotionally struggling. And yet, we feel stuck;

• Should we mind our own business instead of getting nosy and intruding on someone else’s private life?
• Should we take responsibility to show caring and compassion in a way that may make a difference in someone’s life?

The answer, if there is one, is complicated. We don’t want to intrude rudely, but we do have a responsibility. So, what can we do?

A lot depends on the type of relationship we have with them, and how severely they seem to be affected. In a long-term committed relationship built upon trust, we can be pretty open. Start with your own emotions, such as concern. In a casual relationship, or with an acquaintance, we have to be careful. Try a light “feeler,” such as “hard day, huh?” and go from there.

Let’s look at:

DON’T:

• act out of anger, impatience, or other negative emotions
• make threats; “either you see a shrink or I’m out of here.”
• be controlling or bossy.
• make critical remarks about their behavior

DO:

• pick a quiet, confidential spot
• start out casually, but show concern
• self-disclose your own nonthreatening emotions
• listen more than talk
• avoid the word “help.” Some (mostly men?) interpret that as meaning they are incompetent
• if you spot an opening, try a Call to Action; ‘’Hey, I hear there’s a really good doctor in town. Let me give you the phone number.”
• In a close relationship, offer to go with them
• Be patient  –  you may be dismissed the first try

You’ll probably get 1 of 2 reactions: 1) they will welcome the concern, as they were looking for a direction 2) they just aren’t ready yet. I think you’ll know pretty quickly which is which.

Rollin S Rhodes PhD   https://www.rsrhodesphd.com

Licensed Clinical Psychologist     Ask for a free Consult:

See also:

https://www.webmd.com/depression/ss/slideshow-therapy-myths-and-facts

Disclaimer – This site is for informational and educational purposes only. The information is not intended to assess, diagnose, or treat any medical or mental health condition. Reading these articles does not constitute a patient-therapist relationship. Any decisions or actions taken by a reader are fully the responsibility of the reader. If therapy is required, see a qualified licensed provider. If there is a risky or emergency situation, contact your provider, Emergency Room, or call 988.