Take Care of Your Mental Health

I know for many that as autumn ends, we are usually exhausted. With Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in the fall, it adds a reminder that we’ve had to deal with ovarian cancer. It’s the time of year when a lot of emphasis is put on raising funds and raising awareness for ovarian cancer. Something that we are either in the middle of battling or something we try to move past.

I’m here to remind you that you need to take time to support your mental health, no matter what is going on in your life. Whether it’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month or a difficult season for you, take the time to take care of yourself. Even when things are great, we still need to focus on self-care, and that starts with our mental health.

Rest, rest, rest

Your body needs rest! No matter how hard we push, or not, our body needs rest and to recharge. Life is not only physically demanding at times but also mentally draining. Allow yourself to slow down a bit, or even stop moving for a few hours, helps your body recharge.

Rest can be napping, reading a book, seeing a movie, or binge-watching your guilty pleasure (Hello Real Housewives. I know...). Just remember, you need to let that body rest and recharge sometimes.

Spend time with a good friend

The other day, I was so exhausted from an extremely busy few weeks and some unexpected pivots in life. But I had dinner plans with an old friend that I just knew I wanted to see. I was so tired by the time the end of the day came but I knew I needed to go. Not just for her, but also for me!

I threw on a sweatshirt, jeans, and a cute baseball hat to hide the fact that I had no makeup on, and I showed up. I did it for her, and I did it mostly for me. Knowing that dinner would result in being able to share my recent struggles, that she would share hers, and we would both leave feeling a little lighter, was the motivation I needed to get there. The evening even resulted in some much-needed laughter, and a good meal.

I knew I had plenty of other things I could and should do, but I listened to what I wanted and needed that night.

Move your body

I’ll be the first to admit I don’t move my body enough. We need to do it. I also know it would help my mood, and my mental state if I was able to prioritize it more.

I try to take my pup for a quick walk a few times a week. If nothing else, we both get in a little movement we desperately need.

Celebrate the good

You should always celebrate your wins and your growth. There is always something we can focus on celebrating, big or small. Sometimes that’s the boost you need to feel a bit better in your day.

Don't forget, your mental health is just as important as your physical health.