January is Mental Health Wellness Month!
After the end of the holiday season, its time to reign in the new year! During the holidays, we focus on the ones in our lives, but with the new year we can redirect that focus on ourselves. With January being Mental Health Wellness Month, as well as a time for self improvement, we should try and incorporate some great mental health practices to give ourselves the advantage at the start of a new year!
The key to Mental Wellness is self awareness. Are you in touch with how you are feeling at any current moment? Do you understand when you are feeling anxious versus feeling angry? If so, then you are already half way there! The next step is to take action when you become aware of your current emotional or mental state. So next time you are feeling scared or depressed, take some time and try out one of these tips!
(Image Courtesy of: https://www.interiminc.org/january-2022-is-mental-wellness-month/)
Tip #1: Write a Journal
- Have you ever tried writing a journal? Studies have been done on the topic, and many point towards it having profound effects on our mental wellbeing. Being able to visualize your emotions can help put them into perspective. After some time, you may even discover patterns or catalysts to help you manage your symptoms.
Tip #2: Be Physical
- Just like many, you may find yourself getting a shiny new gym membership this January. There is rarely going to be a situation in your life that a little exercise can’t help with. Our body will release endorphins that promote good mental health. Even going for a five-minute walk, may help you get out of your head.
Tip #3: Sleep
- This one is a personal favourite! If you really want to take care of yourself, you need to be getting rest. Sleep is not only a time for physical healing, but mental rejuvenation. When are brains are running at their full potential, it will provide the wisdom and mental capacity to better handle any challenges thrown your way.
If you ever find your mental wellbeing being too much to handle, please reach out for help.
References:
January 2022 is Mental Wellness Month – Interim Inc. (2022) Interim Inc. Available at: https://www.interiminc.org/january-2022-is-mental-wellness-month/ (Accessed: 6 January 2025).
Shields, A. (2023) January is Mental Wellness Month: It’s the perfect time to shift your focus from the holidays to your own personal well-being, Well Being Trust. Available at: https://wellbeingtrust.org/blogs/january-is-mental-wellness-month-its-the-perfect-time-to-shift-your-focus-from-the-holidays-to-your-own-personal-well-being/.
