Thank GOODNESS talking about and caring for our mental health has become more normalized and acknowledged as a necessary aspect of overall wellbeing. Nowadays, there are multiple ways to take care of our mental health at the tip of our fingers; for example – self-help apps, online therapy, mental health quizzes, and more. But putting a pen to paper is found to be extremely helpful in relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. Here are some prompts to help guide your mental health check in:
- How are you doing?
This question may seem too simple, but don’t over think it. This question is a great starting question to move through your check-in with. Allow yourself to take a deep breath and think, how are you actually doing? Try rating your mental state on a scale from 1-10 if that’s helpful.
- Are you taking care of yourself physically?
Have you been exercising lately? Have you been sleeping at a consistent time? Are you following a skin care or hygiene routine? Take the time to consider all the ways you have been taking care of yourself.
- What are you grateful for?
People approach this question differently, but all answers are correct. Engaging in gratitude is one of the best ways to stay positive in your life no matter what you’re currently going through. Take your time and name the things you are grateful for in your life.
- What’s stressing you out now?
When you start to recognize the things in your life that stress you out, you begin to think of ways to handle them as well. Take small steps, whether you make a list or write small things like ‘I need to get dog food’, they’re all important to recognize.
Always remember that there are professionals that can help guide you with mental healthcare!
Written by GUADS Summer intern Carla and edited by GUADS staff member Kate with contributions from www.thebeautyinbeinginsignificant.com
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