May 2023
Mental Health Month: Practice Preventive Mental Health Care
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here is such a thing as “preventive mental health,” just like there is preventive physical health. Here’s one approach: Practice self-compassion—be kind and understanding to yourself, especially during difficult times. Treat yourself with the same empathy and support that you would offer a close friend. And here’s another: Establish healthy boundaries—set limits on your time, energy, and resources to avoid burnout and resentment. Learn to say no to requests that don’t align with your values or goals. Preventive mental health lowers stress and builds resilience for when the going gets tough. Learn more in the workbook, “Better. Mental. Health. for Everyone” by Dr. Abraham Low.
Overcome Springtime Stressors Springtime can include a surprising amount of stress. A menu of stressors typically includes final exam preparation, graduation planning and festivities, dating and relationship issues, loss of focus on school as it comes to an end, recreational pursuits, sport schedules, social events, college planning, and tough financial decisions. The big overlay is parenting challenges. It you’re unfortunate enough to check all the stress boxes above this month, don’t suffer physical and psychological effects. Pick up some tips from your EAP or other professional counseling resources. Anxiety or depression can affect you at any time of year, and some say May is one of the most challenging times.
Information in FrontLine Employee is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the counsel or advice of a qualified health or legal professional. For further help, questions, or referral to community resources for specific problems or personal concerns, contact a qualified professional. Add “http://” to source links to follow. Link titles are always case sensitive.