FEATURE — Being mentally healthy means more than not being anxious, depressed or any of the 300 disorders listed in diagnostic manuals. Being mentally healthy, emotionally healthy and resilient are interconnected with several desirable characteristics that, if not present in a person, can be learned.
These characteristics include flexibility, gratitude, contentment and a sense of confidence and purpose. Taking control of your mental health requires you to be accountable for investing in the types of exercises that generate emotional strength.
Enjoying a clear sense of being mentally healthy does not mean you will never go through hard times. All of us will experience disappointment, stress, loss and trauma. We will endure changes over which we have no control. How we respond to these and other stressors directly relates to our levels of resilience. Being psychologically resilient means you bounce back from crises quickly by responding well to the negative stressors in your life. Resilient people are more flexible, more present and less afraid of uncertainty.
Some of you are looking for better ways to cope with specific mental health problems. Others are wanting to create more satisfaction, feel more energetic and generate more positivity. No matter what you are seeking, there are infinite ways to take control of your mental well-being right now.
Five strategies for building resilience and mental well-being
A strong sense of governing purpose is the foundation for getting your needs met in a healthy manner. A governing purpose is like a guide or North Star that you can use to remain on course with your life. Having a purpose in life gives meaning to your daily tasks and goals. It becomes the big reason why you get up in the morning ready to create.
A positive mental attitude springs from the meaning we place on things and the words we use to describe our experiences. Don’t immerse yourself in negative thinking. Stay connected to positive people. Remember, you have a specific purpose to guide you.
Social connections that are face-to-face can be stress-busting events. Talking to another person and being understood is key to friendship, connection and even romance. Choose a best friend, spouse or partner that can really listen for the feeling behind your words without criticism or judgment.
Keep your physical body healthy and in check by eating healthy meals, regularly exercising your body and mind and getting adequate sleep. Your mind and body are connected at every level. When you take great care of your body, you are going to manifest emotional health. This will translate into resilience during difficult times in your life.
Keep stress in check! Stress is a drain on your energy levels and your emotional well-being. You can’t avoid stress, but you can manage it. Managing stress is a daily detail that, if avoided, will cause stress to build until it appears to take over your senses. Managing stress levels requires you to take time for self-care and unselfish service, organize a written schedule that is never overbooked and always have something to look forward to.
Boosting your mood, becoming more resilient and managing your emotions is completely possible. Do a few things every day to become a little better, and you will find the peace and joy that you deserve. You are incredible! We are all incredible, capable humans!
Written by MATT ESCHLER, PhD, LMFT.
This article was originally published in the May/June 2022 issue of St. George Health and Wellness magazine.
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