The importance of self-care for maintaining mental health

The importance of self-care for maintaining mental health

Did you know that Marquette's Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters, is free, confidential and available to all employees and their family members? Services available include six free sessions with a master's-level counselor, assistance with work-life issues, and identification of local resources. Contact LifeMatters anytime by calling 1-800-634-6433, texting "Hello" to 61295, or visiting their website (password can be found on the Marquette EAP webpage).

As a reminder, employees and their families enrolled in a Marquette medical plan also have access to mental health care through UMR's network of providers. Learn more about how your plan covers mental health care or search for a mental health provider.

The importance of self-care for maintaining mental health - from LifeMatters

It's easy to get caught up in the chaos of daily life and neglect our mental wellbeing. However, taking care of our mental health is crucial for leading a fulfilling and balanced life. Self-care plays a pivotal role in maintaining good mental health and is an essential practice that everyone should prioritize. In this article, we will explore the importance of self-care and provide practical tips for incorporating self-care into your daily routine.

1. Understanding mental health: Before delving into the significance of self-care, it's important to understand what mental health entails. Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act, and influences our ability to handle stress, make decisions and maintain relationships. Neglecting our mental health can lead to a range of issues such as anxiety, depression and burnout.
2. The role of self-care: Self-care involves taking deliberate actions to prioritize our physical, emotional and mental well-being. It is not a selfish act but rather a necessary practice to maintain a healthy and balanced life. Engaging in self-care activities helps reduce stress, improve mood, boost self-esteem and enhance overall mental resilience. It is an essential tool for preventing mental health issues and promoting overall well-being.
3. Types of self-care: Self-care encompasses various activities that cater to different aspects of our well-being. Physical self-care includes exercise, healthy eating and adequate sleep. Emotional self-care involves activities like journaling, practicing mindfulness or engaging in hobbies that bring joy. Social self-care focuses on nurturing healthy relationships and seeking support from loved ones. Intellectual self-care includes stimulating the mind through reading, learning or engaging in creative pursuits. Spiritual self-care involves practices like meditation, yoga or connecting with nature.
4. Incorporating self-care into daily life: Making self-care a priority requires conscious effort and intention. Here are some practical tips for incorporating self-care into your daily routine:
   • Start with small steps: Begin by identifying activities that bring you joy and relaxation and allocate time for them regularly.
   • Create a self-care routine: Develop a schedule that includes self-care activities and treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.
   • Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment and engage fully in the self-care activities you choose.
   • Set boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or commitments that overwhelm you and prioritize your own well-being.
   • Seek support: Reach out to trusted friends, family or professionals when you need assistance or guidance.

Prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining good mental health. By incorporating self-care activities into our daily routine, we can reduce stress, enhance our emotional well-being and build resilience. Remember, self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for leading a balanced and fulfilling life.

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