We all have a routine. While these routines are useful in keeping us active and help us to accomplish our goals, it is also easy to get lost in the day to day activities and forget to check in with ourselves. When this happens, our mental health and wellness is often neglected.
Maintaining mental health and wellness is an essential aspect of your overall health and well-being because it impacts both your emotional and physical health. The World Health Organization defines mental health and wellness as, “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
The World Health Organization also states that, “mental health is fundamental to our collective and individual ability as humans to think, emote, interact with each other, earn a living, and enjoy life.”
Promoting and protecting mental wellness is a priority at McClellan Senior Living, an all-inclusive senior living community in Anniston, Alabama. As we recognize October 10 as World Mental Health Day, we have gathered tips to help you maintain your mental health and wellness and live life to the fullest!
Acknowledge the Positives & Practice Gratitude
We have all heard it before, but it is worth repeating: stay positive. When you focus on the positive aspects in your life, you can prevent negative thoughts and feelings.
The mind is powerful. As challenging as it may sound, staying positive and practicing gratitude can help you cope with difficult circumstances during times of stress. Actively acknowledging the positives in your life lets you focus on everything you have and what is going well instead of dwelling on what is currently causing you stress.
Get Moving, Get Active
Staying physically active can have positive effects on your mental health and wellness as well as your physical health. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals, including dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and endorphins. These neurotransmitters can improve your mood, relax your mind, and relieve feelings of stress.
When we are stressed, our bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Too much of these hormones in the body can lead to negative effects on mental and physical health. Physical activity helps to balance out the chemicals your brain produces and controls the amount of stress hormones in the body, replacing them with mood-boosting neurotransmitters.
Be Mindful of What You Eat & Get Quality Sleep
These two points may seem obvious, but the truth is they are often overlooked and undervalued. Nutrition is what fuels the body and allows it to function the way it was designed, and sleep enables you to reset and refresh for the following day. By consuming a healthy diet and getting plenty of quality sleep, you can help maintain your mental wellness and physical health.
Practice Stress Management
Stress is an inevitable part of life. Accepting this and finding ways to manage and relieve your stress can help you to maintain your mental health and wellness. Participating in activities, such as meditation or journaling are healthy ways to reduce your stress levels and keep your headspace clear. Each of us handles feelings of stress and anxiety differently so it is important to find what works best for you.
Stay Connected to Family, Friends, & Neighbors
Connecting with family and friends can serve as a great way to maintain mental wellness. As humans, we are social creatures. Even the most introverted individuals need some type of social interaction. Make it a priority to reach out to a friend or family member and talk on the phone or FaceTime on a regular basis.READ MORE BLOGS ON SENIOR HEALTH
Mental Health Care
Mental wellness is a vital part of our overall health and well-being and it’s “…more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities (who.int).” When you are having trouble maintaining your mental health and wellness on your own, it may be time to seek professional help. These professionals are equipped to provide coping strategies and can assist you in managing your well-being.
McClellan Senior Living is committed to helping individuals maintain their mental health and wellness. Contact a member of our team for more information on the services we offer or to learn more about our all-inclusive senior living community.