We’ve all heard it, “Take care of yourself.” The Importance of Doing Just That

Many of us have probably heard this saying a million times, “Take care of yourself.” Most of us nod our heads, smile, and go about our day. We’re busy, we have a lot going on, the last thing on our mind is ourselves. But this is an important question- Are you taking care of yourself? 

Here are some ways to do just that: 

Learn  to say, "No"

“Hey can you take care of the kids tonight?” If you’re like me you may be inclined to automatically say yes. I’ll be home and I don’t have plans. But what if I just don’t want to? I’m tired, have chores to do, and quite honestly just want to relax. It’s important to learn to say no without the need to give an explanation. Sometimes you just aren't up to it, and that’s ok.

Talk to a therapist (or Life Coach if that title sounds more appealing to you)

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and just don’t know where to turn. Even if you’re feeling happy, content, and satisfied with everything in your life right now, nothing negative can be gained from talking with a therapist. Therapists provide positive feedback and direction in your life. By providing you with tools to navigate difficult moments in life, therapists can help you deal with life’s daily challenges. Here are more ways to care for your mental health. 

Move your body

Take a walk around the block, go for a jog, a bike ride, do a few jumping jacks in place, or just clean the house. Do whatever you can to get your heart pumping at least once a day. Get moving, it’s good for your body and your mind. 

Be kind to yourself

You are probably your own worst critic. Life may not go exactly as planned, and that's ok. It's important to be kind to yourself and practice patience. Afterall, you're only human.

Mental illness, in addition to adverse childhood experiences and substance use, are risk factors for homelessness. People with poor mental health are more susceptible to the three main factors that can lead to homelessness: poverty, disaffiliation, and personal vulnerability.

It’s great to be there for others, but who’s taking care of you?