A Therapist’s Mental Health Routine
Most therapists don’t let you in on their personal lives (for professional boundaries and ethical reasons), but I figure, hey, why not let a therapist tell you a little bit about their own mental health routine?
The World Health Organization defines mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.’
How beautiful! The thing is, we aren’t naturally in a state of well-being where we realize our own potential, etc. etc. We have to actually try if we’re going to be the healthiest version of ourselves.
Upon some self-reflection, I’ve realized there are some things I take part in on a daily, weekly, and annual basis that help me put myself in an increased state of well-being.
My mind, body, and spirit are connected in so many ways. If engage in one physical act of self-care, let’s say, drinking water, I will also likely experience mental and emotional health as well. While none of these items are an end to themselves, they each have multiple health benefits.
Daily
At home:
Having slow mornings: breakfast, journaling, sitting outside
Staying compliant with my medications
Listening to interesting podcasts
Journaling or drawing
Walking my dog
Meditating or practicing yoga
Eating at least one thing green (because, sorry, most veggies are gross)
At work:
Pausing 1-5 minutes before responding to an email
Drinking water/tea
Stretching or mild exercise between clients
Everything goes on my calendar. Every. Thing.
Weekly/Bi-monthly
Attending personal therapy
Unfollowing people/pages on social media who cause…spontaneous aggravation
Pulling some weeds, or planting something
Hanging out with friends who I can be open and honest with
Having an ongoing 500+ piece puzzle on the coffee table when I get home from work
Annually
Visiting my primary care doctor & staying up-to-date with medications
Taking ample vacation time
Here’s the thing: I’m not strict when it comes to doing these things. I’m still not great about getting consistent sleep, moving my body when I need to, or saying no when chips are around. But I’ve noticed that my trajectory over the years has started propelling me in a direction of health, when I take part in these practices.
I’m still a person worthy of love and respect if I don’t participate in them, but I really don’t feel like myself, and am not at my full potential when I don’t.
What does your mental health routine look like?
Roubicek & Thacker Counseling is Fresno’s premier provider of individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.