This appears to be a simple statement, yet it is all too easy to neglect our mental health, especially when we have a lot going on in our lives
2020 was a challenging year, and 2021 will be even more difficult. We’ve all been in circumstances beyond our control, beyond what we’d “usually” be expected to handle. Dealing with a pandemic is a significant source of stress; distant learning, cancellation of activities or plans, and a lack of access to the things that make us joyful may all contribute to the stress and anxiety of this period. Our personal lives might sometimes be sources of stress. There is a lot of pressure in high school. Whether it’s academic expectations and the desire to achieve excellent marks and do well in our classes or pressures from our parents, friends, and others, being a teenager can be complex and challenging, which may negatively impact our mental health.
Of course, your academic life is essential–standardized examinations, grades, GPAs, and even applying to college. We know you want to succeed, and we want the same for you! However, your health and well-being are always the top priorities. Above and beyond your exam results and academics, you matter as a person. That material comes and goes; the essential thing is your well-being.
Steps to achieve balance
Make your self-care a priority
Individuals nowadays talk a lot about self-care, and it might mean various things to different people. Self-care is what you do to look after yourself. It might help to think of it as if you’re caring for a pet.
“What do I need right now to remain physically stable?” ask yourself.
would this make me ecstatic and happy?
or I need that isn’t pleasurable right now, like cleaning my teeth but will benefit me in the long run?”
Self-care is defined as doing activities that make you feel like the most excellent version of yourself. Perhaps listening to favorite music or going for a stroll would suffice. Maybe it’s redesigning your space to make it feel more like you. Perhaps it’s taking breaks when you need them. You are the best judge of your self-care and self-esteem.
Talk about your feelings.
It is not an indication of weakness to express your emotions. It’s all part of taking care of your health and doing everything you can to stay healthy. Talking helps you deal with a situation bothering you for a long time. Being heard makes you feel more supported and less alone. It also works in both directions. If you open yourself, you may inspire others to do the same. It’s not always easy to put into words how you are feeling. If you can’t think of a single term, use several. What do you think it’s like inside your head? What effect does it have on you?
Exercise
Experts believe that exercise causes your brain to release hormones that make you feel happy. Regular exercise may improve your self-esteem and your ability to focus, sleep, and feel better. Exercise also maintains your brain health and other essential organs. Exercising is more than simply playing a sport or going to the gym. Walking in the park, gardening, or housekeeping may all help you stay active.
According to experts, most people should exercise for 30 minutes at least five days each week.
Make physical exercise that you like a part of your daily routine.
Eat well
There are significant ties between what we eat and how we feel; coffee and sugar, for example, can instantly influence. However, eating unhealthy items can have a long-term impact on mental health.
A beneficial diet to your physical health is equally helpful to your mental health. A well-balanced diet should include the following foods:
Various fruits and vegetables, wholegrain cereals or bread, nuts and seeds, dairy products, oily fish, and plenty of water. Consume at least three meals every day and lots of water. Limit your intake of high-caffeine and sugary beverages, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Have a good support system
Strong familial ties and helpful friends can assist you in dealing with life’s pressures. Friends and family help you and care for you. They can provide perspectives that differ from what is going on inside your head. They can help you address real difficulties. There’s nothing like meeting up with them in person. However, this is not always achievable. Instead, give them a call, send them a letter, or chat with them online. Maintain open channels of communication. It’s beneficial to your health!
If you’re feeling disconnected from specific individuals, go back and read our section on talking about your feelings to begin started!
Take a break
A change of scenery is beneficial to your mental health.
Sometimes, it may be as simple as a five-minute break. It only takes a few minutes to actively de-stress. Allow yourself some “me time.”
Taking a rest may imply being active.
It may simply not accomplish much at all. Take a deep breath… and let go. Try new activities like yoga, meditation, painting, and pottery.
Pay attention to your body. Allow yourself to rest if you are weary. Our mental health suffers, and our focus worsens when we don’t get enough sleep. The world can sometimes wait.
Ask for help
Nobody among us is superhuman. We are all fatigued or overwhelmed at times by how we feel or when things go wrong. Get assistance if things are becoming too burdening for you and believe you cannot manage. Your relatives and friends may provide practical assistance or a listening ear. Local services are available to assist you.
For instance, you could: Join a support group to assist you in making adjustments in your life, consult a therapist to help you cope with your emotions, or create a fresh start.
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