
Did you know…
- One in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental health disorder.
- Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-19 year-olds.
- Some of the leading causes of illness and disability among teens include depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders.
Now that the year is coming to a close, it’s harder than ever to fight stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. But no matter what, we deserve to take care of ourselves.
Here are some tips for boosting your mental health this month:
- We often put too much emphasis on our thoughts, which can be a problem when we have a negative inner voice. Try shifting from being in your thoughts to observing them. Watch them come and go with curiosity rather than judging them or believing they’re true outright.
- Are you stressed? Check how your body feels! Our mind and body are connected and we hold our emotions in our body. That might look like you taking shallow breaths, tensing your muscles, or clenching your jaw. Try to consciously take deep breaths and relax your muscles. If you adjust your body, your mind starts to follow.
- Even though we’re busy, it’s important to integrate something fun into each day. Draw, read, catch up with a loved one, or do whatever you enjoy most. We can’t fill others’ cups if ours is empty.
- Go outside; spending time in nature has been shown to reduce cortisol, a hormone that contributes to stress, anxiety, and depression. Whether you’re exercising or relaxing in the sun, any amount of time outdoors has benefits.
- Come talk to your Support Counselors! If anything is bothering you, we’re happy to talk it out. Whether it’s your mental health, your grades, or your friends, there’s always someone in Suite 250 who can help.
Stay healthy Chaps,
Katie, Brooke, Chelsey, and IzzY