With the number of daily stressors continuing to grow in everyday life, maintaining ones mental health is no longer reserved for those individuals with a diagnosed psychiatric disorder.  Mental health is nothing more than how well we cope with daily life and the stress that it brings.  Call it what you want—a “state of mind,” your “outlook on life”—these things can be compromised, if not cared for properly, in today’s work-heavy, information-overloaded society.  It is estimated the workplace stress causes 1 million people to miss work each day.

Maintaining good mental health is also fundamental to your overall health.  In fact, stress is linked to the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide.  The connection between the mind and the body is undeniable.  A strong will to live can help beat cancer, just as a poor diet can help contribute to feelings of depression.  These aspects of your health are not mutually exclusive and both need to be nurtured equally.

• Meditate – just 10 to 20 minutes of quiet reflection can help relieve chronic stress, as well as strengthen your ability to tolerate stress in the future.  Listen to your favorite music, take deep breathes and try to focus on pleasant things or nothing at all.

   

• Exercise – Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise or physical activity can strengthen the mind and the body.  Regular exercise reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and strengthens your immune system.

   

• Shed the “superhero” image – You can’t do everything at work or at home.  Ask yourself what really needs to be completed and work from there.  Learn to say, “no,” and don’t be afraid to ask for help.  If you meet resistance, give reasons why you’re making the changes.

   

• Turn off your PDA – Make yourself available, especially if you’ve earned the right to flex your hours, but recognize the need for personal time.

   

• Take five – Small breaks from work are not only acceptable, they’re often encouraged by employers.  These breaks will help clear your head and improve your ability to deal with the stressors. 

   

• Be efficient with your time at work – Don’t procrastinate.  When faced with a big project, start by dividing it into smaller tasks.  A completion of each smaller task will allow you to gain a sense of control.  Give yourself a reward—for example, a take five—when you complete each smaller task.

   

• Indulge in hobbies – Take a break from your worries by doing something you enjoy.  Schedule time in you day to indulge your interests.

If you experience some or all of the common symptoms shown on the left, and they persist, it may be time to seek help.  Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength to take the initiative to care for your mental health.