5 Things You Can Do to Feel Better Now


Feeling Good

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Suess

As the weather begins to cool down and the days get shorter, we as Minnesotans know all too well the gloomy feelings that come along with winter. While this is perfectly natural, it’s important to realize that if these feelings are not new or they have become progressively worse, it may be time to seek out some options. Whether you’re just realizing new or worsening symptoms, or you’ve been a frequent flyer, being open about your current mental state can do a lot of good for both yourself and the workplace, just in time for Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 6-12). Here are a few ideas to help end the mental health stigma in the workplace and get yourself to a better state of mind.

Please note that the information presented in this article is not derived from personal medical knowledge. If you need immediate help, please seek out a licensed professional and/or call 911 or an emergency hotline. All affiliated links belong to the original producers.


 

1. Find skills for daily management

To Do List

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It can be incredibly difficult to perform daily tasks when your mental health is not up to snuff. Sometimes the best way to cope is to find what makes you tick and stick to performing even the smallest tasks to make sure you can function as much as possible. Decide which tasks require your attention and focus on doing the best you can. Set small goals and reward yourself.

2. Take care of yourself

Relaxing Spa

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When you’re feeling out of sorts, making good meals or practicing basic hygiene can fall to the bottom of your list. After all, the amount of energy it takes to get up in the morning can take just about all you have. Simple things like rinsing off before changing your clothes or running a comb through your hair can help you feel a little more like yourself. Be patient with yourself and allow for some grace.

3. Talk about it at work

Business Conversation

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If you had a broken leg and couldn’t work at the same level of function as before, people at work would understand. The same is true for mental illness. Talking about what is on your mind with your boss and/or coworkers you trust will bring awareness and understanding as to why you aren’t performing like normal. You don’t even have to say the words, “I’m struggling with _______.” You can simply ask for people to hang in there as you work to get back to yourself again soon. Being honest and vulnerable goes a long way, but make sure you only share to your comfort level.

4. Fight the stigma

Fighting Fist

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“The stigma starts when you judge your mistakes as incompetence or character flaws.” – Srini Pillay.

Talking about how you’re feeling, especially with people you work with, can be intimidating, especially because of the strong stigma around mental health. This is nothing to be ashamed about, and you are not inferior because of this, so don’t let yourself get down if someone does not take this seriously. Additionally, your willingness to combat the stigma may open doors for others around you to do the same. You have a right to advocate for yourself and your needs.

Show your support by spicing up your social media with these graphics, taking the stigma free pledgejoin or host a Walk to Fight Suicide with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, or get advocacy training to help serve your community. Being a voice and showing your support is a great way to fight the stigma!

5. Seek professional guidance

Professional Guidance

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While you can read as many blog posts and clinical studies about what works for people, you alone know what you need. If you are feeling overwhelmed by managing certain thoughts and feelings on your own, you’re not alone. Do some research on highly-rated counselors in your area or call your insurance agency for assistance in finding someone. Seeking an objective opinion in a safe space can be incredibly remedial. Remember that this can be a very necessary part in your healing process, and the sooner you decide to move forward, the better off you will be.

 


 

All of us at MnCCC hope this article finds you well, and we are rooting for you regardless of what you may be going through. If you have any questions about the content of this blog post or would like more information about handling mental health in the workplace (especially as we work on implementing some workshops), you may contact Emily at emily@mnccc.org or Amanda at amanda@mnccc.org, or visit LinkedIn Learning to find some in-depth training videos (like this one) to help you get back to yourself again.

Tags: MnCCC Spotlight(1) , News(1)

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