On this last day of September, the month that recognizes Suicide Prevention Month, we must continue to focus on our self-care. The stress of the last two years related to the pandemic, and the loss and grief and social injustice associated with the pandemic have left us all wounded and drained. It’s important to consider the impact that these stressors are having on our emotional, physical and spiritual lives. We need to reflect on whether we need additional resources and support to maintain health, despite the havoc that we are hit with on a daily basis.
Increase your emotional self-care. Consider interventions that will help you manage your emotions, such as yoga, mindfulness or journaling. Make sure to balance these with distracting interventions, such as watching tv or reading. Make sure you both lean into your emotions and balance them by also taking a break from your emotions.
Focus on your physical health. It’s always important to pay attention and potentially make improvements to your physical health. Because of the negative impacts that stress has on our health we must consider how we are attempting to counteract these consequences. Consider a new exercise regimen, planning out healthier meals or schedule in time for meal prepping (of course, check with your doctor first before starting anything new).
Get in touch with your spiritual self. Prayer and spiritual intention can be very helpful in times of stress. Engage in time to consider what you are grateful for and consider starting a gratitude practice. Reflect on your existence and all of the things in your life that give you meaning.
Evaluate your sleep. Sleep is so important and we should observe whether we are getting enough sleep or too much or whether the sleep we are getting is productive sleep. Talk it over with your doctor to find ways to improve your sleep and also to rule out any sleep conditions or sleeping patterns that are exacerbated by your mood and emotions. Reflect on your sleep hygiene and consider using a mindfulness exercise to help you sleep better.
Consider using CAM interventions. Complementary alternative medicines can be helpful in addition to your usual health regimen. Consider activities like massage, acupuncture, energy work and the benefits they can add to your self-care efforts.
Socialize. Re-evaluate your social circle. Focus more energy on the relationships that bring you joy, the relationships that validate and celebrate you and that aren’t draining. Being in unhealthy or non-affirming relationships can derail your attempts at being healthy and can actually do you more damage than good. Consider making better boundaries in your work, family and friend relationships. Although it can sometimes be difficult to establish a boundary, it will benefit you in the end by providing you with healthier relationships overall.
Professional Help. If you are experiencing stressors or mood symptoms that are affecting your functioning or are making you feel unsafe you should seriously consider utilizing treatments including psychotherapy, medication, support groups, and other therapeutic resources. In an emergency (if you feel unsafe) you should go to your nearest emergency room for evaluation.
Also consider using the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a free 24 hours a day/7 days a week hotline for anyone in emotional distress. (800) 273-8255