Change is an inevitable part of life. Whether we like it or not, it sweeps through our lives, bringing new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. While it can be unsettling and disruptive, it also has the power to propel us forward, unlocking our potential and fostering personal growth. Rather than resisting it, acknowledging the inevitability of change allows us to adopt a proactive mindset and embrace the unknown with openness. In August, we celebrated National Wellness Month where we focused on positive change like prioritizing your self-care, managing stress, and promoting healthy routines.

As you continue into the rest of your year, and the rest of your journey, consider the below suggestions for implementing positive change toward mental wellness.

10 Ways to Live “Well”

1. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with a strong support network of friends, family, or support groups who can offer understanding, empathy, and encouragement. Sharing your experiences and emotions with trusted individuals can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of belonging.

2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This may include engaging in regular exercise, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy.

3. Manage Stress: Develop effective stress management techniques to minimize the impact of stress on your mental health. This may involve practicing relaxation exercises, setting boundaries, practicing time management, and engaging in activities that help you unwind and recharge.

4. Establish Healthy Habits: Adopting healthy habits can positively impact your mental health. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding excessive alcohol or drug use, limiting caffeine intake, and establishing a balanced routine that incorporates activities you enjoy and that contribute to your overall well-being.

5. Challenge Negative Thinking: Become aware of negative thought patterns and challenge them with more balanced and realistic thinking. Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help you reframe negative thoughts, develop self-compassion, and cultivate a more positive and optimistic mindset.

6. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily life. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, fostering greater self-awareness and reducing stress. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, body scans, and meditation can help cultivate mindfulness.

7. Engage in Meaningful Activities: Participate in activities that bring you a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. This can include pursuing hobbies, volunteering, engaging in creative outlets, or contributing to causes you care about. Engaging in activities that align with your values and interests can boost your overall well-being.

8. Maintain Healthy Relationships: Nurture healthy and supportive relationships in your life. This involves effective communication, active listening, empathy, and mutual respect. Establish boundaries to protect your well-being and seek help if you encounter toxic or abusive relationships.

9. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life. Regularly express appreciation for the things you are grateful for, whether through journaling, verbal expressions, or acts of kindness. Gratitude can help shift your perspective and promote a more positive outlook.

10. Seek Professional Help: If you are experiencing mental health challenges, chronic stress, and burnout working with a licensed therapist can help. 

Remember, each individual’s journey to wellness is unique, and it may involve a combination of different strategies. Be patient with yourself, seek support, and celebrate small victories along the way.