While the last couple of years have raised some people’s mental health crises and stress levels to new heights, there are still ways that we can combat mounting stress levels and start feeling like our “old selves” again. Sometimes, life can feel overwhelming, and it seems like we’ll never get a handle on the things that are upsetting us, but you need to know you’re not alone, there is always help, and it can be done. So, let’s take a look at some essential tools to keep in your mental health toolkit to get that done.
Exercise For Your Mind
While we all know the benefits of physical exercise on our bodies, not everyone realizes the massive positive impact it has on our mental health as well, including those experiencing PTSD. Going for a quick jog or a long walk can significantly reduce stress and give you time to sort through any troubling thoughts stressing you out and causing anxiety, including those related to PTSD. Choosing higher intensity workouts where you’re really breaking a sweat can get you in the zone where you’re thinking about nothing but the exercise and release massive amounts of endorphins that boost mood. If this type of physical activity doesn’t interest you or isn’t possible for health reasons, even light yoga or pilates is calming and can help manage symptoms of PTSD. Yoga can also incorporate meditation and breathwork, which has shown to be incredibly grounding for individuals with PTSD.
Supplement Where You Can
Some people prefer to take a more holistic approach to mental health issues at first. Being open to natural methods first is a great stepping stone to addressing your mental health and trying to help balance your mood. One popular method of supplementation for mood and anxiety is CBD oil. Some people find the taste strong; fortunately, you can find options like peppermint CBD, chocolate, even fruit-flavored. You can also take CBD in different forms like tinctures, gummies, edibles, drinks and even CBD cream (which is great for pain relief). CBD gummies are another way to use CBD for anxiety. CBD gummies are edibles with the active ingredient CBD and are used for various purposes, including coping with anxiety. The gummies for anxiety work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate mood and stress levels. The use of cannabis for anxiety has become a popular method for those seeking natural relief today. Other popular supplements for anxiety are passionflower and magnesium. So, visit a local natural health foods store, and they can educate you more on supplements that can help you or do your own research online. Additionally, you want to make sure you check in with your GP before starting any new supplement regimen if you’re already taking prescription medications. Most supplements don’t have any contraindications with prescription medications but do your due diligence and double-check.
Watch What You Eat
Make sure you’re eating a diet rich in whole, nutritious foods. Consuming too much food that is overprocessed and full of sugar and fat will not do you any favors when it comes to your anxiety and stress levels. You want to be nourishing not only your body but your brain as well. So, whether you have to meal prep or subscribe to a healthy meal eating plan to stay on track and help you avoid fast food and convenience items, it’s worth making healthy eating part of your daily lifestyle to stay ahead of your mental health.
Make Sure To Sleep
When life feels chaotic, one of the first areas we start to struggle with is falling asleep and staying asleep. It’s essential to make sure you’re getting enough sleep every night. If you’re not giving your brain time to rest and recharge itself every night, how can you expect not to feel overwhelmed? Try nighttime rituals like unplugging from social media and avoiding television a couple of hours before bedtime. Enjoy some relaxing aromatherapy like lavender while you take a calming bath. Including teas that promote calm, like chamomile, is another excellent idea before turning in for the night. If you still have trouble falling asleep, consult with your GP; they may be able to offer more advice or even prescriptions to help with your sleep issues.
The Most Important Thing
However, the most important thing to remember is that when your stress or feeling of anxiety reaches a level where you feel out of control, or if you feel like you are beginning to become depressed, do not hesitate to reach out for help. There is nothing wrong with admitting you need to talk to a therapist or meet with a psychiatrist for medicine that can help you through a difficult time. You are loved, and you are enough. So, take care of yourself; the world is a better place with you in it. Here’s to your health!
