Wellbeing

Exploring the Importance of Self-Care

What is self-care?

In a general sense, self-care refers to activities undertaken with the intention of enhancing energy, restoring health and reducing stress. There are many ways to do this and self-care is something that can be personalised for every individual.

Self-care can also be about processing emotional reactions to life and doing things that we might find difficult, like asking for help.

Being mentally healthy and living well is important to every single one of us – whether we are living with a mental illness or not. It’s about enjoying life and fulfilling your potential. It’s having the ability to cope with stresses and sadness, and it’s about being connected to friends, family, community and culture.

Why is self-care important?

Mental health and wellbeing is important to individuals, families, schools, workplaces and communities. There is a role for everyone to play.

Some of the benefits of self-care include:

·         greater capacity to manage stress

·         increased resilience

·         reduced symptoms of mental health problems

Taking time for self-care is not always easy, but doing something small each day, week or month is a good start.

Ways to look after yourself

·         Physically

·         Be active and eat well

·         Get enough sleep and rest

·         Monitor and manage your stress in positive ways

·         Limit the use of alcohol and other substances

Relationships

·         Nurture and maintain your personal relationships

·         Connect with others to keep strong

Time for you

·         Make time for interests and things you enjoy

·         Get involved and join a group with common interests

·         Learn something new to help build you confidence

Spiritually

·         If you have spiritual beliefs, make time for regular spiritual practice

·         Connect with others who share your philosophy

Asking for help

Reach out for support when you need it. Everyone needs support from time to time. Talking to a family member, a friend, your doctor or one of the many services available can make all the difference.

Source: https://everymind.org.au/need-help/self-care