Mental Health Check

(Article from Everything Gose Write July Edition)

Mental Health Check
Maintaining my mental health is a very important part of my life. One of the reasons is because I live very openly with my mental health struggles. You see, fifteen years ago, I attempted to take my own life and was very nearly successful. In the last few years, I’ve developed a strong passion for life and wanting to save others who endure the darkness I understand all too well.
Lately, I’ve been wondering how to share my progress in a helpful way. My first newsletter brings an opportune way to share my experiences in a way that might be beneficial to some. 
Here are just five things I do to maintain a healthier life. These are things that work for me, and while I know they may not work for your personal mental health trials, I do stand by them.

1. Drink water, eat small meals and small snacks. My hardest struggle is remembering to eat on the regular and to drink water, especially during writing binges. This can really hurt me for days later so I set alarms to help me remember. 
2. Take care of your skin. Face masks, lotions and creams are just a few things that can help you feel refreshed and improve your mood. Once or twice a week, spend an hour or two on self-care via your skin and body. The routine will give you something to look forward to and you will feel a noticeable difference in your skin.
3. Make small goals and follow through, no matter how hard it feels. Sometimes I struggle for energy but I still have to take care of my horses, so I force myself to get out there, to spend time with them and/or to muck. The combination of the necessity and the exercise released endorphins along with the fresh air and sunshine have helped my mood elevate considerably. I know not everyone has horses so I suggest a walk or other activity that requires repetition.
4. Cry when you feel the need. Not crying means you’re bottling your emotions up… This can be really damaging for your mental health. So whether you put a movie on that makes you cry or listen to sad songs, let that emotion free. Release it and let it go. Even my badass special ops dad cried, and he never hid the fact he had emotions from me. His ability to own his emotions has helped me own mine. So cry when you need to.
5. At the end of the day, list five things you’re grateful for, even on bad days. This simple act will change your sleep and outlook on life. It does take repetition and focus on the positive aspects of life can be tough to handle BUT I have done this every day since my aunt told me this is what helps her… And I have to say, it works.

So there you have it… just five small things I think help to create a better life. Now none of this replaces therapy, but I believe these small steps have helped me ascend mountains, emotionally speaking.

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