Many people mistakenly believe that if they don't have a mental health disorder, they don't need to think about their mental well-being. It's important to realise that wellness isn't just the absence of illness or stress.
Instead, it's an active process of being mindful about leading a healthy and fulfilling life. Just as you establish habits to maintain physical health, you can also cultivate habits that enhance your mental wellness. Mental and physical well-being are interconnected and should be treated as skills that require ongoing attention.
However, for individuals in rural communities, achieving this balance can be challenging due to isolation and limited access to mental health resources and healthcare.
Furthermore, the uncertainties in farming can add significant stress and financial pressures. There's often a misconception that working long hours, sometimes up to 16 hours a day, is necessary to demonstrate a strong work ethic.
This can lead to stress, burnout, and an unhealthy, unbalanced life. So, how can you start making time to bring equilibrium to your physical and mental well-being?
Here are five steps to guide you in fostering both physical and mental health while introducing more balance into your life:
1. Physical Activity
The key is to discover the kind of exercise that resonates with you, whether that means joining a laid-back sports team, taking leisurely walks with a friend or a furry companion, or practising yoga in the comfort of your own space. Physical activity has been proven to do wonders for your mental well-being, helping clear your mind, boosting self-esteem, and reducing feelings of depression and anxiety.
2. Quality Sleep
While we once believed that poor sleep was primarily a consequence of mental health issues, recent research suggests that inadequate sleep can actually be a root cause of mental health challenges or exacerbate them. Establishing a healthy bedtime routine can contribute to a happier, calmer demeanour and enhanced focus during the day.
3. Balanced Nutrition
Reduce your consumption of sugary foods and replace them with nutrient-rich options like fish, vegetables, and foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados. These dietary changes have been demonstrated to alleviate depressive symptoms in adults.
4. Community and Relationships
Whether it's the support of family, a significant other, friends, coworkers, or even four-legged companions, feeling connected to those around you can foster a greater sense of purpose and love in your life. Explore ways to build a sense of community and connection.
5. Relaxation and Recreation
In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to neglect the hobbies you once cherished or overlook the simple pleasure of sitting down with a good book. Allocating time to engage in activities you enjoy can uplift your mood and provide you with more resilience to confront challenging emotions when they arise.
In essence, it's crucial to acknowledge the intricate link between mental and physical health. Taking care of both aspects and working on your overall well-being can yield a multitude of positive effects on your quality of life.
Additional Sources for Advancing Your Health and Well-Being
For those seeking support, consider taking a free, confidential online screening today. If you've been working on self-improvement but feel you could benefit from additional assistance, visit bryanhealth.org/online-screenings.
Here, you have the opportunity to complete a discreet screening to assess whether you might be experiencing symptoms of a treatable mental health disorder. Following the screening, should it be necessary, you can make an informed decision about consulting with a mental health professional.
For individuals open to further guidance, don't hesitate to contact the Rural Response Hotline at 1-800-464-0258. When farmers, ranchers, or rural residents reach out to the hotline, they'll be connected with experienced staff members trained in the COMHT (Counseling, Outreach, and Mental Health Therapy) Program.
These professionals are equipped to provide support over the phone or in-person, offering confidential information and assistance.
If you're involved in farming, you also have the option to get in touch with Farm Aid's online Farmer Resource Network, which links farmers with a wide network of organizations across the nation.
This network is designed to help farmers access the resources they require to explore new markets, transition to sustainable and profitable farming practices, and weather the challenges posed by natural disasters.
In cases of crisis, please call 911, visit the nearest emergency department, or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) in the United States offers valuable information about the eight dimensions of wellness and provides strategies for cultivating healthy habits that benefit both your mental and physical well-being. To gain a deeper understanding of these dimensions, you can also watch the informative three-minute video included here.
Remember, achieving balance in physical and mental wellness is an ongoing journey, and it's essential to take proactive steps to nurture both aspects of your health.
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