Taking time for mental health

10-18 October 2020 is Queensland Mental Health Week. This year’s theme is #TakeTime for mental health, and now, more than ever, it’s so important to take the time to check in with yourself and those around you.

Over the years, I have found that I’m happiest when I’m living in alignment with my personal values. Having a clear understanding of your values helps you to prioritise your time and energy, and connects you with your purpose. 

My values are family, health, financial security, adventure and achievement, and when I’m actively focusing my efforts on those things, I notice that I feel balanced and have a positive outlook. I find it easier not to ‘sweat the small stuff’ and let the rest fall into place.

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” — Mahatma Gandhi

Today I’d like you to take time to think about your values: what’s important to you, what motivates you, what makes you feel invigorated or at peace? And how much time or energy do you spend on each of these? This will give you an idea of what drives you, and areas of your life that might need some attention. If you’re not sure where to start, try this exercise from Psychology Today. 

Queensland Mental Health Week also offers some simple, proven ways to boost your mental wellbeing, resilience and happiness:

• Take time to get healthy — keeping active and fuelling up on a nutritious diet is good for both your mind and body
  
  
• Take time to keep learning — learning new things keeps your mind active and boosts confidence
  
  
• Take time to show kindness — practising small acts of kindness, volunteering time, or helping a friend in need can help you feel more satisfied with life
  
  
• Take time to connect — spending time with other people is important to everyone’s mental wellbeing, and is more important than ever in 2020
  
  
• Take time to take notice — paying attention to the present and the world around you can help you relieve stress and enjoy the moment
  
  
• Take time to embrace nature — connecting with the outdoors and taking care of the planet is the best recipe for world wellbeing

Visit the Queensland Mental Health Week website for more information and resources. If you or someone you know needs some extra support, there are also some great resources in the Find Help section of the site.

Image: Mads Schmidt Rasmussen (@immvds) via Unsplash