Making Space for Yourself

Taking time for self care every day isn't selfish

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

This is your #selfcaresunday reminder to take good care of yourself. Many times, those of us who are care givers, or who struggle with mental health issues, don’t feel like we deserve to take time on self care. We put others first, and it results in getting exhausted and burned out.

Recently, I was reminded just how important it is to put your mental health first. I have been struggling with my depression pretty badly for a while, so last Wednesday I checked myself in for 5 days at the Crisis Stabilization Unit. It was so helpful to have a team of staff available to help me get back on track mentally.

Having a Care Team is Important when Living with a Mental Illness

If you have a mental health condition yourself, it is important to continuously work on your mental health, so that you can stay stable. Having a therapist, life coach, psychiatrist, counselor or case manager is extremely helpful. Working with a team of these professionals can help to keep you on track.

When I was in the crisis unit, we had group therapy four times a day, as well as meetings with a therapist and psychiatrist. There is so much you can learn in therapy about how to cope with mental health problems. Even if you are in therapy for a while, you can always learn something new.

Personally, I had been using a long list of coping skills that had worked for me for years. But at a certain point, the depression was too much and they stopped working. Taking time out for a mental reset was really helpful. It allowed me to take time and space for myself to heal. I also got referrals to professionals I will be working with, new prescriptions, and phone numbers to call in case of emergency.

If you are struggling yourself, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You can find a local crisis care unit like I did, or reach out to an emergency number for help.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling 988.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help for your mental health. No one needs to suffer alone in silence.

Also, make sure you are taking time for self-care so that you can stay on track with your mental health and wellbeing.

Taking Time For Self Care Is Key for Moms With A Mental Illness

How to Create a Self-Care Plan to Improve Your Overall Health

How to find a therapist. Having a therapist is key to better mental health.

Have a wonderful week, my lovelies! Be well!

All the best,

Nicole Dake