September - Four Things We Are Loving
It’s National Suicide Prevention Awareness month. A relevant time to note that more than 50% of us will receive a mental health diagnosis in our lives. In the U.S., mental health disorders (like depression) are one of the main risks of suicide. And, suicide is a leading cause of death. At CHILL, we hope to be at the forefront of mental health prevention and provide programming and support to foster better mental health for individuals, organizations, and communities. We know we can help many people before suicide is even a consideration.
Teaching positive coping strategies is how we help. They are powerful techniques to support your own mental health and be a self-advocate. Here are a few we use on the CHILL team:
Make Time to Meditate (our favorite)
Make time to Meditate (our favorite): Meditation is a potent tool for managing anxiety and depression. Regular meditation reduces stress levels, improves focus, and enhances emotional well-being. It encourages a state of inner peace by calming the mind's incessant chatter. This quieting allows us to better understand and manage thoughts and emotions —which can be transformative in alleviating anxiety and depression. Meditation is a major mood booster, releasing feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin. And, it's not only about feeling good in the moment; regular meditation can actually rewire your brain over time. Ultimately this contributes to having a more positive outlook and enhancing your resilience to support life’s challenges.
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Move Mindfully
Getting that body moving isn't just about sculpting a killer physique; it's a mental game-changer too. Similar to meditation, your brain releases chemicals that reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular exercise also works wonders for your sleep quality (which is another important coping strategy), and a huge support system for mental wellness. Whether you hit the gym, practice yoga, go for a run, or play a game of pickleball, physical activity gives you a sense of accomplishment. This boosts your self-esteem and confidence. So, lace up those sneakers and get those endorphins flowing – your mind will thank you!
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Find a Hobby
Photo by Jordan Whitfield on Unsplash
Hobbies provide an outlet for creative expression, offering a break from daily stressors and worries. Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, gardening, or any other fun pastime, the act of immersing yourself in an enjoyable activity can uplift your mood, boost self-esteem, and instill a sense of accomplishment. It also allows you to tap into a “flow state”. Flow increases creativity, improves motivation, and generates greater happiness. And, connecting with fellow enthusiasts through hobbies is another major mental health benefit. Social connections are a powerful way to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
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Go to Sleep:
Proper rest is fundamental to support your mental well-being. Adequate sleep plays a vital role in restoring energy levels. It regulates your mood and emotional well-being, keeping irritability and mood swings at bay. Ever notice how everything seems a bit more manageable after a good night's sleep? That's because sleep enhances your ability to think clearly, concentrate, and make sound decisions. Plus, it's a crucial player in maintaining a robust immune system and physical health. The bad news? Lack of sleep can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety and put you at risk for diseases. The good news? We can help you get that shut eye with rest focused practices on CHILL Anywhere.
By integrating these strategies into your daily routine, you can better support mental well-being, enhance resilience, and find the strength to navigate difficult times. Remember, seeking professional help and connecting with a support network are also crucial steps in this journey toward improved mental health. If you or a loved one is suffering, please know there is help. You don't have to fight your battles alone. You are important. You are enough. You have a reason to be here. Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and NAMI Chicago Helpline 833-626-4244
