Mental Health Wednesday

As Labor Day approaches, the excitement builds for a well-deserved break filled with festivities, gatherings, and relaxation. However, amidst the joy and celebration, it's essential to recognize the significance of maintaining good mental health. Just as we take care of our physical wellbeing during this holiday, tending to our mental well-being is equally crucial. Let's delve into why prioritizing mental health during Labor Day celebrations is an investment that pays off in numerous ways.

1. Ac k n owl e d g e Stressors: Labor Day can bring about its share of stressors – from travel plans and family dynamics to organizing events and managing expectations. These stressors, if left unaddressed, can take a toll on mental health. By acknowledging their existence and impact, you empower yourself to manage them proactively.

2. Set Realistic Expectations: It's easy to fall into the trap of expecting perfection during Labor Day celebrations. The pressure to create an idealized experience can lead to disappointment and heightened stress. By setting realistic expectations and understanding that imperfections are natural, you're able to enjoy the moments as they come, reducing unnecessary stress.

3. Practice Self-Care: Amid the festivities, it's crucial to carve out time for self-care. Engage in activities that nourish your soul, whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or meditating. These practices help alleviate stress and bring a sense of calm amidst the chaos.

4. Stay Mindful:

Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, which can be particularly beneficial during celebrations. Instead of getting lost in worries about the past or future, focus on the here and now. This approach not only enhances your enjoyment but also reduces anxiety.

5. Seek Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Connect with friends or family members you trust and share your feelings. Sometimes, just talking about what's on your mind can provide relief and a fresh perspective.

6. Limit Social Media Use: While sharing memories on social media is common during holidays, it's essential to remember that people usually share the highlights of their lives. Comparing your celebrations to others' curated posts can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Limiting your social media use can help prevent unnecessary stress and foster a healthier outlook.

7. Practice Gratitude: Labor Day is an excellent opportunity to reflect on the positives in your life. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can improve your overall mental well-being. Take a moment to appreciate the people you're celebrating with, the experiences you've had, and the journey you're on.

8. Set Boundaries:

During Labor Day gatherings, it's important to set and maintain healthy boundaries. If certain interactions or situations are causing you discomfort, don't be afraid to step away or communicate your needs. Prioritizing your mental health means ensuring your well-being comes first.

Conclusion: As you prepare to enjoy the festivities and camaraderie of Labor Day, remember that your mental health deserves the same attention as your physical health. By acknowledging stressors, practicing self-care, staying mindful, seeking support, and setting boundaries, you're investing in a more joyful and fulfilling holiday experience. By prioritizing your mental health, you're giving yourself the gift of resilience and emotional well-being that will extend far beyond the celebrations.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the present moment, without judgment or distraction. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and sensations in a non-judgmental way, while also being aware of your surroundings.

The goal of mindfulness is to cultivate a sense of calm and inner peace, by focusing on the present moment and letting go of worries or distractions. This can be done through a variety of techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to your thoughts and feelings as they arise.

One of the key benefits of mindfulness is that it can help reduce stress and anxiety, by helping you to stay centered and focused on the present moment. It can also help improve your overall well-being, by promoting a sense of calm and inner peace.

There are many different ways to practice mindfulness, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. Some people find it helpful to meditate regularly, while others prefer to engage in mindful activities like yoga or walking in nature. The important thing is to find a practice that works for you, and to make it a regular part of your routine.

Free Mental Health Resources in Cibola:

New Mexico Crisis and Access Line | www.nmcrisisline.com Crisis and Access Line | 1-855-NMCRISIS | 1-855-662-7474 Peer-to-Peer Warmline | 1-855-4NM-7100 | 1-855-466-7100

NMConnect smartphone app helps you easily access support in the moment you need it.

Call or Text 988 for quick, free, mental health support.

Village of Milan Police Department has a chaplain program that supports first responders in need. Understanding the wide community need for mental health support, MPD’s chaplain program can also serve the wider public, visit MPD at 619 Uranium Avenue, Milan, New Mexico, 87021.

MPD has a YANA Program to help those feeling lonely or depressed. People in the program will receive a free, daily phone call and will get the opportunity to chat. Visit https://www.villageofmilan. com/y.a.n.a._registration/ index.php for more information.