Mental Wellness Month is observed in January. One in five adults experience mental health issues every year. Millions of lives are impacted by poor mental health.

Mental Wellness Month is intended to bring awareness to the importance of good mental health. Blue Monday takes place in January because it is based on a number of days from the holidays when credit card debt sets in, seasonal depression occurs, and there is a letdown after the holidays when family is no longer visiting.

Mental Wellness Month is an important time of year to check in with yourself. If you’re struggling, now is the time to contact a mental health provider.

If the concept of mental wellness is new to you, consider the following steps that can easily be added to your routine:

Develop an attitude of gratitude

Focusing on the people and things we are thankful for can help build a positive sense of self. It is often said that while every day may not be good, there is something good in every day. Take a moment or two to focus on the good things, and draw your attention away from what might be dragging you down. Some people find it helpful to keep a list of what they are grateful for, others find it helpful to express appreciation through prayer, conversation, or writing a note.

Set aside time to do the things you enjoy

Often we can become overwhelmed by the things we feel we “have” to do, and lose sight of those things that give our lives joy and meaning. Set aside time each day to engage in something pleasant and meaningful to you; take a walk, hot bath, or engage in a hobby. Your pleasant event does not have to take a lot of time out of your day to add a feeling of well-being to your day.

Take a break from stress

Try eliminating or reducing those things that are not healthy or helpful to you. Take a break from watching the news, or unfollow negative people on social media. Set appropriate boundaries in your life, and learn to say no sometimes.

Slow down

Notice with intention the things you are doing. Drawing your awareness to the moment, especially those moments that are pleasant, enhances our ability to be mindful, and connected with ourselves and others.

Take care of yourself

Enhancing our physical wellness also improves mental wellness. Exercising, eating well, and treating physical illness are all important steps to take to help build an overall sense of wellbeing.

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