Despite what you might think, your mental health is a huge part of your everyday life. It affects many aspects including, how you act, think, and feel in every situation. Mental health takes up the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of your life. When we do not take care of our mental well-being, it can sometimes feel like the world is falling apart. The first thing you need to know is this – it’s not your fault.
Depression and anxiety are more common than you may realize. People of all ages suffer from mental illness and sometimes don’t even realize it. Life can get hectic when you miss work, are late on a homework assignment, or don’t answer your phone, but accepting the validity of those situations is the most important thing.
Should I be telling you that it’s okay to miss work or to not do your homework? Probably not. But the truth is, that is going to happen anyway. When your mental well-being is being compromised, taking a step back and getting to the big picture might be the only way to give yourself grace.
The big picture? The world will not crumble at your feet if you give yourself a day to breathe and get your head on straight. Call in sick, email your teacher, and let yourself relax. Being depressed and being hard on yourself because of it solves nothing.
Taking time to yourself a little bit every day is the perfect way to keep your mental health in check. Small things such as journaling or talking to a friend about your day can release a lot of the pressures that come from life. Ensuring that you are getting consistent sleep is also vital in making sure your brain is being cared for. Try some of these other things during your day to keep your mental well-being in check:
- Listening to calming/favorite music
- Meditating or yoga
- Working out
- Taking time off of your phone
- Spending time outside/fresh air
Doing these things might help with the everyday stress and weight of your life, but if it becomes too much to handle, consider seeing a mental health professional. There is no shame in talking to someone who understands your experience and can help you develop the correct skills to tackle tough times. You cannot control everything that comes your way, and trying will only make life more stressful.
Being mentally healthy is important, but it’s also important to acknowledge that you may not always be mentally healthy, and that is not your fault.