Editor’s note: The Mental Health Matters column is written by a layperson, not a mental health professional.
The information is gathered from personal experiences and research. The column’ s goal is to share the perspective of a nonprofessional looking at mental health matters and point out that mental health does matter. The following is basic information to boost your mental health. For more help, please seek someone you trust and consider asking for help
I have been struggling with being overly busy and too committed, and I find that there truly is no time for sleep, relationships, or even a decent meal. I order coffee that gets cold while I type away on my computer at the coffee shop, and I am often a no-show when friends invite me over for a quiet evening around the fire pit.
How are we supposed to balance our obligations with the things that bring joy and, frankly, help our mental health? I am a firm believer that we should work to live, not live to work, but if someone were looking at my life right now, they would rightly say I was acting hypocritical.
The following are actions I am attempting to help me with this season of life: Protecting your sleep is vital to your health. While deadlines are pressing, running out of steam will only slow you down and impact you physically. Make sleep a priority and consider it an investment.
Understand this is just a season, not your whole life. It is okay to be busy for a measured time in your life, but it should not become your lifestyle. By setting a specific date where you will reassess your obligations, and make adjustments, this will help make sure it stays a season.
Take a moment to eat healthy food. I am not a food tyrant. However, taking time to eat something that will fuel you, rather than junk food that will lead to an energy crash, is worth the time.
Make connections differently. During a busy season, you may not be able to go over and sit by the fire with a friend. However, if you are at the coffee shop, send that text and invite them. Call between meetings and connect. Making connections even during the busy seasons is important for your mental health and relationships.
Life can be busy, and responsibilities are real. Even so, remember that you matter beyond your obligations. Your worth comes from who you are, not what you do. This period will pass, and you will be able to breathe deep again.