Over the last decade, engaging in practices that support a person’s mental health has become more widely accepted and acknowledged. In fact, some would argue that therapeutic and self-care activities have become downright trendy, which is a far stretch from how society viewed seeking mental and behavioral health supports in the not-too-distant past.

Because we’ve made such great strides in recognizing a person’s need to maintain and support their mental health, I think it’s important for the average person to know a few great strategies and tips to keep in mind when determining what your individual support needs are as it relates to your personal mental health goals.

1.      You don’t have to go with the very first therapist you meet.

A common misconception about finding a therapist is that you are stuck with the first mental health professional you encounter. However, I would strongly suggest that you treat the process of identifying a therapist, similar to the way you would go about identifying any other long-term relationship – by asking questions and interviewing a potential therapist to evaluate whether or not you will positively respond to their style of support. If you don’t feel comfortable talking with a potential therapist upon introduction, chances are, it’s not going to get any easier for you to be open and honest when it comes to addressing some of life’s challenges with this same person. Hence why it is critical for you to commit to entering into the therapeutic process with someone that creates a space for you to feel safe and supported. You can absolutely shop around to find someone that’s going to help you navigate life’s ups and downs in a way that is most effective for you!

2.      Self-care practices don’t have to be super fancy.

If you subscribe to any wellness-based podcase or social media account, you may have noticed that self-care practices have taken on a new level of grandiosity. Not everyone has time to take a one-hour hike in nature 5 days a week or soak in a fancy bathtub full of expensive salts, essential oils, and 55 candles perfectly stacked around you. Some of us are just trying to get through the weeks and maintain our sanity and thinking about incorporating a $50 face mask in the routine is not only worth an eye roll, but also shouldn’t be the standard by which we measure whether or not we’re practicing self-care. Self-care can be as simple as wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable throughout the day. It can be going to bed and waking up at designated times. It can be watching your favorite show. Overall, the takeaway here should be, don’t be intimidated by the over-commoditized wellness industry’s “standard” self-care practice suggestions. Find practical things that work for you, and honor/celebrate yourself when you introduce those rituals into your life!

3.      Your mental health requires regular maintenance and support.

Our society has taken mental, much life physical health, and created treatments that are reactive versus preventative. Therefore, I would fully recommend regular therapy to anyone. Sure – you may need to engage in the therapeutic process more often if you’re experiencing a major life crisis. However, if you have taken the time to routinely maintenance your mental health, chances are you will be equipped with the tools and resources to navigate life when it gets stickier than normal. A great analogy to this is dental care… Many of us prioritize brushing and flossing our teeth on a regular basis and make regular trips to the dentist to get cleanings, x-rays, etc. This way, we’re maintenance our oral health through treatment and incorporating practices into our everyday lives to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, etc. If you do experience a cavity, then it’s typically easy to fix with some extra trips to your dental professional. The same approach applies to a person’s mental health! As soon as we normalize routine mental healthcare, the more likely we are to be set up for long-term success.

If what you’ve read today has sparked some motivation or interest to seek therapy, I would be honored to let you interview me to see if we could be a good match. Schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation with me so we can get to know each other and talk through some of your individual needs and mental health goals.