Author: Merivic Grace Lacaya

Psychoeducational Content Associate

Home is Where The Health Is: A Family’s Guide to Mental Health

Post author By Merivic Grace Lacaya
Post date 29 December 2023

Have you ever heard the saying, “Home is where the heart is”? Well, it might be just as accurate to say, “Home is where the health is,” especially when it comes to mental health. How many times do we pause to consider the crucial effect that our familial relationships have on our mental state? “How you treat your loved one has a big impact on their well-being.” Family holds a central place in the mental health support network, providing essential encouragement and a secure base in turbulent times.

What is the role of family in our mental health?

Our families, in all their unique forms and dynamics, are integral to our mental well-being. They are our first point of contact with the world and play a significant role in shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Studies underscore the influence of social ties, especially family relationships, on our mental health. Positive relationships can bolster our mental resilience, while strained connections might do just the opposite ¹. The family systems theory illuminates this interconnectedness, suggesting that a shift in one member’s mental state can reverberate throughout the entire family unit.

Understanding mental health can be very challenging, especially for families trying to help their loved ones. It is important to notice and address mental health problems early on. Here is the essential information to identify the key symptoms to watch for, ensuring that help is sought at the right time to potentially alter the course of mental health disorders and provide the support and care that your loved ones truly deserve.

Adults, Young Adults, and Adolescents:
- Confusion: A drop in work performance.
- Mood Swings: Dramatic emotional highs and lows.
- Social Withdrawal: Limited social interactions.
- Sleep & Diet: Shifts in sleep and eating habits.
- Stress Intolerance: Quick to agitation.
- Red Flags: Experiencing delusions or suicidal thoughts. Seek immediate help.
Older Children and Preadolescents:
- Daily Activities: Struggling with home and school tasks.
- Defiance: Opposing parental authority.
- Sleep & Diet: Changes in habits and complaints of physical issues.
- Emotions: Intense fear or anger.
- Red Flags: Suicidal ideation. Seek immediate professional advice.
Young Children:
- School Performance: Declining grades despite effort.
- Sleep & Diet: Shifts in sleep and eating routines.
- Anxiety: Constant worrying or nightmares.
- Behavior: Hyperactivity or frequent outbursts.
- Social Behavior: Avoiding once-loved activities.

How can we help a loved one who is experiencing mental health issues?

When someone close to us is struggling with mental health problems, it can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of in how to provide the necessary support. However, there are clear and actionable steps that can be taken to have a beneficial impact. Below, we will delve into eight vital strategies that can guide us in providing essential support and empathy to our loved ones, aiding them through their mental health challenges.

1. Initiate the Conversation

Starting a conversation about mental health can be daunting, but it’s a crucial first step. Offer a listening ear, validate their feelings, and reassure them of your unwavering support. Remember, patience is key, and if they’re not ready to talk, that’s okay too. Encouraging phrases like “I’ve noticed you’ve been going through a tough time, how can I help?” can make all the difference.

2. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power. Familiarize yourself with your loved one’s mental health condition to better understand and support them. Dr. Lefley highlights the transformative impact of family education on both the patient’s well-being and the overall family dynamic ².

3. Navigate Guilt and Shame

Feelings of guilt and shame are common among family members, but it’s crucial to remember that mental health is influenced by a myriad of factors, including biological, psychological, and social elements. Families play a vital role, but they are not the sole factor.

4. Empower Your Loved One

Empowerment and respect are key. Allow your loved one to make decisions, fostering their sense of control and self-esteem. Your support can contribute significantly to their journey towards empowerment and recovery.

5. Maintain Calm and Hope

Your demeanor and attitude can significantly impact your loved one. Responding with patience, understanding, and hope is crucial. Recovery is possible, and your unwavering belief in their ability to heal is invaluable.

6. Establish Equality

Treat your loved one as an equal member of the family, setting consistent expectations and boundaries for all. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and normalcy.

7. Set Realistic Expectations and Collaborate

Understand that recovery is a journey with potential ups and downs. Collaborate with your loved one’s treatment team, offering your support every step of the way. Your involvement, even when it seems unnoticed, is essential.

8. Seek Support for Yourself

Caring for a loved one can take its toll on you too. Don’t hesitate to seek support for yourself, recognizing your limits and ensuring that you are in the best position to offer help.

For those keen on delving deeper into the complex dynamics of family and mental health, and how to navigate these waters when a loved one is in need, there’s a treasure trove of knowledge and resources at your fingertips. Embark on this journey with us and explore the pivotal role of family in one’s mental well-being. For more tools and resources, consider downloading the Mind You app or visiting www.mindyou.com.ph/public.

¹ Smith, K. P., & Christakis, N. A. (2016). Social Networks and Health. Annual Review of Sociology, 34, 405-429.

² Lefley, H. P. (2018). Family Caregiving in Mental Illness. Sage Publications.

Business & Mental Health Productivity

Caroling Away Workplace Stress: Myths and Facts of Holiday Burnout

Post author By Merivic Grace Lacaya
Post date 28 December 2023

Employee being frustrated by christmas holiday festivity in startup office, trying to work on laptop during xmas eve time. Stressed man being disturbed and interrupted by noisy people.

As we approach the final month of the year, are you gearing up for a relaxed Christmas or bracing for the hustle of the ‘ber’ months? This holiday season, let’s delve into a topic close to the hearts of many Filipinos: the holiday experience. Christmas, a time of celebration and joy, also introduces its unique set of challenges, particularly for those balancing work commitments. We often find ourselves torn between achieving end-of-year goals and fully enjoying the holiday spirit. This season, let’s prioritize meaningful connections and self-reflection to infuse our celebrations with more joy and less tension. Join us as we explore holiday myths and facts, shedding light on the true nature of the holiday season’s pressures. In the midst of this delicate balance between year-end objectives and embracing the holiday spirit, we encourage you to prioritize not only productivity but also meaningful connections and self-reflection. Let’s infuse our celebrations with more joy and genuine connections while debunking holiday myths and uncovering facts, shedding light on the true nature of the holiday season’s pressures.

What is Holiday Burnout?

Before we dive into unraveling the realities and misconceptions about holiday stress, let’s understand what holiday burnout really means. Often called “festive season fatigue” ¹ it’s a mix of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that hits during or after the holidays. Imagine juggling the emotional weight of family expectations, the physical rush of back-to-back holiday events, and the mental load of trying to make everything perfect. It’s more than just feeling tired; it’s the result of continuous stress and overcommitment. Knowing what causes this burnout is key to enjoying the holidays without getting overwhelmed. Here are the signs you need to look out for ² to know that you are burned out this holiday season:

Feelings of Energy Depletion or Exhaustion: Feeling worn out after holiday events or work? It’s a common sign of burnout. Activities that used to be fun now feel exhausting.
Feelings of Cynicism Related to the Holidays: Losing excitement for the holidays? This shift from cheer to chore is a tell-tale sign of burnout.
Reduced Efficiency: Struggling to keep up with holiday and work tasks? A drop in your usual effectiveness is a clear indicator of burnout.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for addressing holiday burnout, helping us refocus on joy rather than stress this season.

Unveiling Myths and Facts

Now that we better understand what can lead to burnout, let us see and clarify some common misunderstandings about it:

Myth 1: Holidays are solely a time for joy and relaxation.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, the holiday season often brings a unique set of stressors, including financial pressures, social expectations, and increased workload. Research indicates that this period can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety for many individuals. A 2023 study by VeiraMal Consulting ³ found that holiday-related stress can significantly impact mental well-being. Employers can play a pivotal role in mitigating this stress by implementing supportive measures such as flexible work arrangements and mental health resources. By acknowledging these challenges and providing support, workplaces can help employees navigate the holiday season more effectively, balancing festivity with well-being.

Myth 2: Feeling fatigued and admitting to burnout is a weakness.

Fact: Recognizing and admitting to burnout is not a sign of weakness but of inner strength—a courageous step towards self-care and sustaining a healthy professional life. A 2021 report by Abramson ⁴ states the importance of recognizing burnout as a crucial element in seeking support and implementing effective coping strategies. In high-demand industries, especially during the holiday season, creating a culture that encourages open conversations about mental health and provides support systems is vital. This approach not only improves individual well-being but also contributes to a more resilient and productive workforce as highlighted.

Myth 3: Using digital platforms for shopping and socializing makes the holiday season more manageable and less stressful.

Fact: The truth is, excessive digital engagement during the holidays, including online shopping and virtual socializing, can actually contribute to increased stress, a phenomenon often referred to as “Digital Holiday Burnout” ⁵. The constant need to be online and the pressures of digital consumerism can amplify stress and fatigue. To mitigate this, individuals are encouraged to set boundaries for their digital consumption. This can include allocating specific times for online shopping, limiting the duration of virtual social interactions, and ensuring regular breaks from screens. Additionally, engaging in offline activities, such as physical exercise, reading, or spending time in nature, can provide a much-needed balance and reduce the likelihood of digital overload during the holiday season (Lorenzana & Soriano, 2021) ⁶.

Myth 4: Working through the holiday celebrations indicates neglecting of family time.

Fact: Balancing work and family during the holidays is not an act of neglect but a common reality people face. A study conducted by Dayrit and Lacap 2020 ⁷ shows that many Filipinos actively pursue a work-life balance and stress the importance of efficient time management. This endeavor isn’t just about managing your schedule; it’s a mindful, guilt-free choice driven by a sense of responsibility, the importance of one’s career, personal needs, and self-worth. This balanced approach empowers you to meet your duties, fostering a deep sense of achievement, crucial for maintaining your self-esteem, free from external judgments or unnecessary guilt.

By wrapping this up, it’s crucial to understand holiday burnout’s myths and facts. This knowledge is key for employers and employees alike, fostering a workplace culture that supports well-being during the festive season. By recognizing the realities of holiday stress, we can create an environment that balances work commitments with merry celebrations, ensuring a healthier, more joyful end to the year. Let’s embrace a supportive work environment that values mental health and fosters productivity amidst holiday demands. For further insights into managing workplace stress and burnout, explore the resources available on the Mind You app or visit www.mindyou.com.ph/public.

¹ Burke, J., & Laiti, J. (2022, December 27). Holiday burnout: why it happens – and three research-proven ways to help you recover. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/holiday-burnout-why-it-happens-and-three-research-proven-ways-to-help-you-recover-195609

² Hogan, M. (2022, November 18). How to Spot & Prevent Employee Burnout This Holiday Season. Red Branch Media. https://redbranchmedia.com/blog/recognizing-preventing-employee-burnout-during-holiday-season/

³ VeiraMal Consulting. (2023). LinkedIn. Linkedin.com. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sleighing-stress-navigating-holiday-hustle-workplace-hcdkc/

⁴ Abramson, A. (2021). The ethical imperative of self-care. Https://Www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/04/feature-imperative-self-care

⁵ Smith, M. (2021, November 24). “The most guilt-ridden, nightmare time of year”: how to avoid holiday season burnout at work. CNBC; CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/24/how-to-avoid-holiday-season-burnout-at-work-according-to-experts.html

⁶ Lorenzana, J. A., & Soriano, C. R. R. (2021). Introduction: the dynamics of digital communication in the Philippines: legacies and potentials. Media International Australia, 179(1), 3-8. https://doi.org/10.1177/1329878X211010868

⁷ The Influence of Work-Life Balance on Employee Engagement among Workers in Pampanga, Philippines: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach. International Journal of Psychosocial Rehabilitation, 24, 3095-3112.

Lifestyle

It’s Time for MENtal Health: Embracing Positive Masculinity and Empowering Men to Thrive

Post author By Merivic Grace Lacaya
Post date 14 July 2023

Ever asked a man if he’s “manning up” enough or wondered why “boys don’t cry”? But what about asking how his day was, or if there’s something he’d like to discuss? The lens through which we view masculinity can either bind or free men from societal chains. Why don’t we take a moment to adjust our focus?

As a woman who grew up in a predominantly male space, I’ve often pondered these questions. I’ve seen firsthand the expectations and pressures that come with traditional notions of masculinity. Although I wear the tag of a woman, I’m also eager to understand and open a dialogue about men’s mental health. I believe that many of us have experienced this in some form or another, especially with the men in our lives – our fathers, brothers, partners, or friends. And it’s time we help these men feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for.

The narrative around masculinity has predominantly been in the negative light, painting a default picture that makes many men feel inherently toxic. After all, masculinity, at its heart, is a blend of strength and tenderness, a combination of being protective and nurturing, a balance between determination and understanding. It’s about recognizing the full spectrum of human cognition, emotions, embracing vulnerability, and seeking help when required.

Positive Masculinity - What is it?

To truly grasp the essence of masculinity, it’s important first to understand what it means. Masculinity (1) refers to embodying traditional characteristics that society often associates with men. This encompasses attributes such as assertiveness, dominance, courage, and control. However, a contemporary dilemma arises when this definition is compared against the narrative of toxic masculinity. How do we draw the line between toxic and positive masculinity? Positive masculinity (2) is the expression of attitudes and behaviors that have been embodied and enacted by males for the common good, both individually and for the community. Instead of solely highlighting the negative traits men should avoid, a more constructive approach would be to champion the brighter side of masculinity. This centers on acknowledging the inherent good in the male psyche and celebrating it, shifting the conversation from restriction to empowerment.

Building on this understanding of masculinity, it becomes paramount to differentiate between the essence of being a “good man” and the proficiency of “being good at being a man.” At its core, Being a good man is rooted in morality, ethics, and cultural values, emphasizing societal productivity over primal survival roles. Historically, prominent masculine figures sought guidance from thought leaders like priests and philosophers. Yet, conflicts arise when theoretical ideals clash with practical actions. Optimal synergy emerges when thinkers and doers value each other’s perspectives. On the other hand, excelling in masculinity is about resilience, adaptability, and the instinct to protect. It signals reliability to others and showcases inner strength, even without perfect morals. Regrettably, some in power have reshaped its narrative, valuing submission over skill. To rectify the issue of toxic masculinity, championing its sincere and beneficial attributes is essential.

How can it affect men’s mental health?

Historically, men’s mental health has been cloaked in stigma, often overshadowed by outdated perceptions. Phrases like “man up” or the misconception that “a man can’t be sensitive” not only diminish men’s emotional experiences but also erect barriers against seeking help. Such stereotypes perpetuate the idea that vulnerability is opposed to masculinity (4).

However, embracing positive masculinity can be transformative for men’s mental health. By acknowledging and promoting the balanced blend of power and compassion, guardianship and care, and determination with understanding, we advocate for a more rounded mental health perspective for men. The American Psychological Association (5) highlights the risks of clinging to these extreme masculine ideals. This alignment can aid in mitigating feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, social challenges, substance abuse, and isolation that many men grapple with, largely in silence.

Positive masculinity propels the idea that it’s okay for men to seek assistance, to express, and to be vulnerable. Such a perspective not only fosters a healthier mental state but also cascades into holistic well-being, enriching relationships, and ensuring all men to feel, to heal, and to thrive (6).

What are the ways to empower men to thrive?

With a clearer perspective on what constitutes masculinity, recognizing the essence of becoming a man, and its impact on mental health, it’s crucial to chart a course towards positive change. A deeper dive into masculinity reveals certain tactical virtues that can empower men to thrive. These insights, drawn from Jack Donovan’s “The Way of Men” (7), shed light on the enduring pursuit of true manhood.

1. Strength: While physical might is often emphasized, strength goes beyond just muscle. A strong individual possesses the character to withstand life’s trials and is resilient in the face of challenges. Without strength, one might feel isolated or face even tougher challenges.To illustrate in the context of dedicated father, one harnesses their emotional strength to provide stability and nurture for their children, even when faced with personal adversities.

2. Courage: The ability to confront fear, pain, or adversity head-on. Acts of bravery aren’t just reserved for heroes in tales but are daily undertakings. Our society holds in high regard those who face challenges undeterred, showcasing the significance of courage in shaping positive masculinity. For instance, even when others doubt or mock your choices, your courage pushes you to follow your passion, like diving into an rare hobby, and in turn, you inspire many.

3. Mastery: Mastery in various domains is vital. Whether it’s fixing a leak, playing an instrument, or mastering digital technologies, skillfulness often translates to intelligence and adaptability. The quest to acquire new skills underscores a man’s commitment to self-improvement and growth. As a man, by consistently refining your skills, whether in art, craft, or profession, you create unique masterpieces that stand out and are celebrated by others.

4. Honor: A value often regarded as the foundation of character. It’s about self-respect and respecting others. Living honorably means upholding principles and ensuring that actions align with one’s moral compass. Upholding your commitments and treating others with respect earns you a reputation as a trusted and esteemed figure in your community.

True masculinity lies in the balance and integration of these virtues. It’s not about adhering to dated norms but evolving to be a force of good, both for oneself and the community.

At Mind You, we celebrate the potential in every man to embrace and embody positive masculinity. We are passionate about amplifying the strengths and virtues that lie within each individual. With tools and resources tailored to empower men’s mental well-being, we’re dedicated to supporting you on a journey toward flourishing and thriving.

For more tools and resources to understand and address Men’s Mental Health, download the Mind You app or Visit www.mindyou.com.ph/public. Together, let’s redefine masculinity for a healthier tomorrow.

References:

(1) Grewal, A. (2020). “The Impact of Toxic Masculinity On Men’s Mental Health.”. Sociology Student Work Collection. 68. https://digitalcommons.tacoma.uw.edu/gender_studies/68

(2) Crowther Centre. (2021) Operationalising positive masculinity. https://www.crowthercentre.org.au/resources/operationalising-positive-masculinity-a-theoretical-synthesis-and-school-based-framework-to-engage-boys-and-young-men/

(3) Donovan, J. (2012). The Way of Men. (p. 41) Dissonant Hum. 9780985452308

(4) Chatmon BN. Males and Mental Health Stigma. Am J Mens Health. 2020 Jul-Aug;14(4):1557988320949322. doi: 10.1177/1557988320949322. PMID: 32812501; PMCID: PMC7444121.

(5) American Psychological Association. (2018). APA GUIDELINES for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men. https://www.apa.org/about/policy/boys-men-practice-guidelines.pdf

(6) Ringdahl, B. A. (2020). Positive masculinity: Counseling men through a prosocial and strengths-based lens. In D. A. Kleiber & E. Delgado-Romero (Eds.), Social psychology and counseling: Issues and applications (pp. 171–190). Nova Science Publishers.

(7) Donovan, J. (2012). The Way of Men. (p. 41) Dissonant Hum. 9780985452308

Lifestyle

You Are More Than Enough: A 5-Step Process To Transform Your Inner Critic With Self-Compassion

Post author By Merivic Grace Lacaya
Post date 21 June 2023

Smiling young woman showing blank plastic card in city park. Blurred pretty lady wearing sweater and standing with blurred green view in background. Introduction concept. Front view.

Have you heard of the saying “Monsters are not under your bed but are inside your head?” Surprisingly, this holds truth. No matter our mental and emotional resilience, we all harbor inner demons waiting for the right opportunity to challenge us.

Interestingly, our biggest critic often turns out to be ourselves. Why is that so? Why is it so easy to be kind to others yet struggle to be gentle with ourselves?

This stems from self-criticism. Self-criticism means looking at your own actions, qualities, and spotting the things you think you didn’t do well or areas you believe you can improve. While this can be good for pushing yourself to grow and get better, being too hard on yourself can tarnish your self-esteem and mental health (1). However, in the shadow of self-criticism lies the light of self-compassion—a beacon that leads us towards self-acceptance and inner peace.

The wisdom, “The most powerful relationship you’ll ever have is the relationship with yourself,” underscores an often neglected truth: we sometimes forget our worth. What, then, exactly is self-compassion? And how crucial is it to our mental and emotional health?

Self-compassion, in its essence, is the act of directing acceptance, love, and understanding towards oneself. In moments of failure or self-doubt, it guides us towards supportive self-talk and empathy, rather than blame, judgment, or criticism. It’s a trifold concept, encompassing mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness (2).

Now, you might be wondering how to cultivate this self-compassion, especially when your inner critic is particularly loud. Fear not! We’ve laid out a simple yet effective 5-step process to help you in this transformative journey.

Step 1: Identifying Your Self-Critical Voice (3)

The first step in any transformation is acknowledgment. It’s important to understand how often and in what situations this inner critic speaks up. By pinpointing these moments, you can begin to understand your triggers and be better prepared to address them. For instance, Imagine you’re learning how to swim. As you struggle to float or coordinate your strokes, your inner critic might start whispering, ‘You’re hopeless in the water. Why even try?’ Recognizing this voice when it happens is the beginning towards overcoming it and gaining confidence in your abilities.

Step 2: Let Go of Resistance and Embrace Acceptance (4)

The more you resist a thought, the stronger it becomes. Instead of pushing these self-critical thoughts away, acknowledge them. By doing this, you rob them of their power over you. Consider a time you made a minor mistake at work. Instead of obsessing over it and thinking, “I shouldn’t have done that,” accept the thought and counteract it with, “I made a mistake, but it’s a part of the learning process.”

Step 3: Practice Mindful Awareness (5)

Mindfulness means staying present and fully engaging with the here and now. It allows you to witness your thoughts without getting entangled in them, creating space between the thinker and the thought. To give context, while preparing a meal, you accidentally burn the food. Instead of getting caught in a whirlwind of self-critical thoughts like, “I’m a terrible cook,” practice mindfulness. Observe the thought, understand it’s a natural reaction to the situation, and then let it go, focusing on the present moment.

Step 4: Reframe with Kindness (6)

Reframing involves altering your perspective on a given situation. Instead of allowing the self-critical voice to dominate, challenge it with a kinder, more compassionate view. As an example, if you missed an appointment and you think, “I’m so forgetful and irresponsible,” reframe it to, “Everyone has a lot on their plate and can forget things. I’ll make a reminder next time.”

Step 5: Seek Help and Support (7)

Sometimes, the weight of our inner critic can be too much to bear alone. It’s okay to seek external support, whether it’s friends, family, or professionals. They can offer a different perspective, provide validation, or give tools to better cope with self-critical thoughts. For instance, after enduring recurring episodes of anxiety and harsh self-judgment, consulting a psychologist can be transformative. Within the therapeutic space, they offer tailored coping mechanisms and insights, leveraging their professional insight to help you address the root cause of negative self-talk.

Always remember that you are more than enough. With these steps, you can shift from internal self-doubt to internal self-love. Keep in mind that every journey begins with a single step. And this journey? It begins with the belief that you deserve kindness from the world and from yourself.

If you’re seeking further assistance in this transformative journey, “Mind You” is here to help. We specialize in providing tools and resources that foster self-improvement and nurture a more compassionate individual within you. We believe that everyone has the potential to cultivate a positive inner voice, and we’re dedicated to helping you discover yours. Download the “Mind You” app or visit www.mindyou.com.ph/public for more details and let’s embark on this journey together.

References:

(1) APA. (2023). Self-Criticism. APA Dictionary of Psychology. Apa.org. https://dictionary.apa.org/self-criticism

(2) Neff, K. D. (2012). The science of self-compassion. In C. Germer & R. Siegel (Eds.), Compassion and Wisdom in Psychotherapy (pp. 79-92). New York: Guilford Press.

(3) Firestone, L. (2019). Steps to Overcoming Your Critical Inner Voice. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/compassion-matters/201005/steps-overcoming-your-critical-inner-voice

(4) Eddins, R. (2016, May 17). Working with Your Inner Critic. Psych Central; Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/lib/working-with-your-inner-critic#1

(5) Burnett, T. (2022, December 30). The Inner Critic – Mindfulness Northwest. Mindfulness Northwest. https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/3class/msc/the-inner-critic-tim-burnett/

(6) Gerber, H. (2023). Change the Internal Narrative by Confronting Your Inner Critic. The Science Survey. https://thesciencesurvey.com/editorial/2023/06/06/change-the-internal-narrative-by-confronting-your-inner-critic/

Lifestyle

Taking Care of YOU: Guide to Self-Care and Harnessing Your Inner Energy

Post author By Merivic Grace Lacaya
Post date 12 October 2022

Have you ever wished life came with an instruction manual, especially in times when everything feels upside-down? Picture the days when your energy feels drained, or that your inner engine could use a tune-up. If you’ve felt like a car nearing ’empty’, wishing there were self-care mechanics around, then we’ve got uplifting news for you. Now’s your time to refuel and jumpstart the most essential vehicle in your life… YOU!

What is Self-Care?

At its core, self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s well-being and happiness, especially during periods of stress. According to the World Health Organization, self-care is “what people do for themselves to establish and maintain health, and to prevent and deal with illness.” But what does that really mean for you and me?

In essence, it’s the maintenance of our total self. And just like a car has multiple parts, we too encompass various dimensions. Let’s deep-dive into these 8 main areas of self-care and explore how we can kick-start our journey to a healthier and happier version of ourselves:

1. Physical Self-Care: Remember, your body is the vehicle that carries you through life. Treating it right by maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise (at least 30 minutes daily), and ensuring proper sleep (7 hours or more) not only keeps it running but also impacts your mood. Think of it as the fuel that keeps your engine purring.

2. Intellectual Self-Care: This is like the GPS of your being. It’s all about engaging and challenging your brain to keep it sharp. Whether you’re learning something new, practicing mindfulness, or simply changing your internal dialogue, this dimension keeps you mentally on track and helps navigate through life’s challenges.

3. Emotional Self-Care: Think of this as your car’s suspension system, absorbing the shocks of life. It’s about understanding, expressing, and processing your feelings. Saying “no” when you need to, reflecting on emotions, and setting emotional boundaries helps smooth out life’s bumpy roads.

4. Social Self-Care: No car’s journey is complete without passengers. Investing time in relationships, asking for help, or even just spending quality time with family and friends adds value to our life’s journey. It’s about ensuring you have the right co-pilots with you.

5. Occupational Self-Care: This is like maintaining the gears of your car. It’s ensuring that no matter how much you love your job, you’re taking steps to prevent burnout, staying inspired, and always looking forward to the next professional milestone.

6. Environmental Self-Care: Ever enjoyed a car ride more because of a clean windshield? A tidy and comfortable environment works similarly, reducing stress and enhancing happiness.

7. Spiritual Self-Care: This is the integrity of your vehicle, guiding you towards purpose and meaning, irrespective of religious beliefs. It’s about finding what grounds and connects you to the universe.

8. Financial Self-Care: Just as a car needs financial maintenance, regularly checking your financial health, tracking expenses, and staying on top of money matters ensures you don’t stall midway on your life’s journey.

In conclusion, self-care is not just a luxury but a necessity. It ensures that we’re not just running, but thriving, in this marathon called life. At “Mind You”, our core philosophy is rooted in this holistic approach toward well-being. We help you by providing practical tools and research-based resources, ensuring that you’re not only participating in life but truly leading the race.

Want to get started on this exciting journey of self-discovery and wellness? Download the Mind You app or Visit www.mindyou.com.ph/public to learn more about mental health related concerns.