Health

Self Care: Supporting Your Mental Health

Meditation and mental health

Looking After Your Mental Health When Life Includes a Chronic Condition

No matter who we are caring for our mental health is important. When life gets hard, its critical to slow down, take care of yourself, and get help when you need it.

Follow these self-care tips to give your emotional health a boost.

Get Better-Quality Rest

It’s easy to cheat ourselves of enough rest, but it’s important to remember the amount of sleep you get directly affects how you feel emotionally and physically.

Some tips to help you get better-quality sleep each night include:

  • Keeping electronics out of your bedroom.
  • Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
  • Avoid caffeine late in the day.
  • Avoid long naps during the day.
  • Avoid eating late in the evening.
  • Relax and clear your mind for a half-hour before bed.

Get Fresh Air

Getting outside offers fresh air and often a fresh perspective on the day. You’ll be surprised at how much sun, nature, and a gentle breeze can improve your mood.

Some fun outdoor activities that can help to boost your mood include:

  • Taking a hike or even just a walk around the block
  • Riding a bicycle
  • Having a picnic
  • Reading in the park
  • Gardening

Learn to Say “No”

It’s not fun to have to tell someone ‘no’. However, be careful to stay in control of your time. Feeling rushed or overwhelmed can make us nervous and even a little angry. Prioritize yourself and what you want to help keep your spirits up.

Know When to Ask for Help

Be sure to tell someone who cares about you how you are feeling. That might be a friend or family member or someone on your Satellite care team. You’d be surprised at all the ways your social worker can help when you are feeling down.

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