Mental Health is Messy
Embracing the Complexity of Mental Health
Everyone has it.
Like our wardrobes, mental health is unique to everyone. It's a mix-and-match, learn-as-you-go journey and it's going to look different for each person. But just because everyone dresses differently, doesn't mean we all don't share the same experience of having to figure out what to wear. While our mental health may be unique, we're not alone in navigating it.
The better we know ourselves, the better we can care for ourselves.
As much as we’d like it to be, navigating your mental health is not a straightforward journey; rather, it's a messy and intricate process filled with many twists and turns. For instance, some days we might feel on top of the world, while others we struggle to get out of bed. This unpredictability and variability are normal and inherent to the human experience.
Our emotions can be complex and blend together in a way that is hard to understand clearly. Yet, embracing this messiness is essential; honoring the full spectrum of emotions and thoughts that make us human. It involves accepting that taking care of our mental health is not a straightforward, linear journey, but rather a constantly shifting and evolving one. By acknowledging and embracing this complexity, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and cultivate resilience in the face of life's challenges.
Activity: Embracing Your Mental Health Spectrum
Ask yourself:
What emotions am I experiencing right now? Is that different from earlier today or yesterday?
Can I or do I feel these emotions in my body? What does it feel like?
Can I sit with these emotions without judgment or wanting to change them?
These questions are designed to help you start reflecting on the various thoughts, feelings, and experiences you have.
CULTIVATING RESILIENCE AND SELF-COMPASSION
Navigating the ups and downs of mental health requires resilience and self-compassion.
In order to do this, we need practical skill sets we can lean on. Resilience involves developing the ability to bounce back from adversity, and learning from setbacks rather than succumbing to them. For instance, when facing a difficult situation at work or in personal relationships, instead of becoming overwhelmed, we can identify solutions, seek support, and adapt our approach.
Similarly, self-compassion entails treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, particularly during challenging times. This might involve recognizing our own worth and acknowledging our efforts, even when things don't go as planned.
By actively cultivating resilience and self-compassion through concrete actions such as problem-solving, therapy, positive self-talk, and consistent self-care and lifestyle practices, we can strengthen our mental well-being and better navigate life's inevitable ups and downs.
ACTIVITY: Writing Your Self-Compassion Mantra
Ask Yourself:
What are some common self-critical thoughts I have?
How can I reframe these thoughts into messages of kindness and understanding?
What affirmations or mantras resonate with me and can serve as reminders of my inherent value?
How can I incorporate these messages into my daily self-care routine?
FOSTERING CONNECTIONS AND SEEKING SUPPORT
While our mental health journey is deeply personal, we are not meant to walk it alone.
Whether it's leaning on trusted friends and family members for a listening ear, attending support groups to find solidarity and understanding, or seeking professional guidance from therapists or counselors, reaching out allows us to share the weight of our struggles and find comfort in knowing we're not alone.
By prioritizing these connections and seeking support, we create a safety net of empathy and validation that helps us navigate the complexities of our mental health journey with greater resilience and courage.
Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and reaching out is the first step toward healing and growth.
ACTIVITY: Reaching out for Support
Ask Yourself:
Who are the people in my life I feel comfortable confiding in about what I’m going through?
How can I initiate conversations about mental health in a safe and supportive manner?
What professional resources or therapy options are available to me if I need additional support?
How can I prioritize nurturing relationships that uplift and validate my experiences?
By embracing the messiness of mental health, we not only honor our own journey but also contribute to a culture of compassion and understanding for all. Remember, your mental health is valid, and you are worthy of support and care.
