Self-care has become somewhat of a trend lately. However, there’s so much more to caring for your well-being than going to the spa or taking a bubble bath. There are many ways to practice self-care, so you should consider your specific needs when creating a routine. For example, if you’re dealing with depression, it’s going to take more than a mani-pedi to lift your mood. Although it may come as a surprise, attending therapy sessions is a form of self-care and one that may be critical for your mental health.
If your self-care regimen isn’t alleviating feelings of sadness, exhaustion, or irritability, you might have a mental health condition like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Promises Brazos Valley can provide you with a thorough assessment and the mental health treatment you need to start finding relief from your symptoms.
What To Know About Self-Care and Mental Health
Seeking out mental health treatment is actually a form of self-care. It shows that you value your well-being and are willing to make the effort to get the help you need to feel better. There are several ways to prioritize your mental health through self-care. You can consider enrolling in therapy or consulting a doctor or psychiatrist to explore if medication might be helpful for you. If needed, taking time off work to attend residential or intensive outpatient treatment is another option. Joining in-person or online support groups can provide additional guidance and connection. Additionally, opening up to your loved ones about your mental health challenges can be an important step toward support and understanding.
In addition to treatment, self-care for your mental health also involves lifestyle changes like:
- Eating a nutrient-rich diet full of vitamins and minerals known to support healthy mood, like vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and other substances that interfere with the natural production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine
- Improving sleep hygiene by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day and ensuring your room is dark and comfortably cool
- Scheduling time each day to do something you enjoy, like calling a loved one, watching your favorite show with your partner, playing with a pet, or reading a book
- Making time for stress reduction techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, or even coloring
Self-care is a holistic practice that you can tailor to your personal needs and interests. For optimal results, be sure to incorporate self-care into multiple areas of your life.
The Benefits of Self-Care for Your Mental Health
Of course, self-care can make you feel relaxed and pampered, but it also offers multiple benefits for your mental health.
Increased Self-Compassion
Many people dealing with mental health conditions have difficulty showing themselves compassion. Making self-care a regular part of your life reminds you that you deserve kindness, understanding, and comfort.
Stress Reduction
Acts of self-care help minimize stress levels by bringing awareness to your physical, mental, and emotional needs, empowering you to notice what you need in the moment and take action.
Improved Mood
Meeting your needs through self-care naturally makes you feel happier, calmer, and more fulfilled.
Increased Self-Advocacy
As self-compassion increases through regular self-care practices, you’ll also develop a greater sense of self-worth. This lends itself to setting healthy boundaries to honor your needs.
Contact Promises Brazos Valley for Help With Self-Care and Mental Health Treatment
Are you ready to reap the benefits of self-care by getting mental health treatment? Promises Brazos Valley offers a wide range of treatment programs at our warm, welcoming location in College Station, Texas. Whether you need the intensive structure of residential treatment or just a little extra support a few days a week, we have a program to fit your needs. Call us at 979.426.0086 or fill out our online form to schedule an intake assessment and discuss how we can help you care for your mental health.