What is a Good Way to Deal With Mental Health?

Mental health is how we think, feel, and act. It affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Everyone goes through ups and downs, it is important to learn how to deal with our emotions because mental health can feel weak in the moment, but it is very possible to work on it and make it better. 

First, it is important to learn what your stressors are. Stressors are things that may stress you out such as friendships, school, sports, family, social media, etc. Some signs of poor mental health are sleeping too much or too little, avoiding friends, overeating or undereating, feeling sad or angry for long periods of time, no longer doing the things that once brought you joy. 

A good way to deal with mental health looks different for everyone but here are some ideas:

• Build a strong support system 

       - Reaching out in vulnerable moments is one of the strongest things you can do! Find a trusted adult or doctor to speak to!

       - Surround yourself with friends that only want the best for you and bring positivity into your life.

• Practice self-care

      -  Journaling, coloring, taking a walk, cooking a meal, going to the movies with friends, working out, etc.  

• Practice mindfulness

       - Mindfulness is initially learning how to live and be in the moment.

• Prioritize sleep

      -  Our brain and body need time to recharge our bodies. Not getting the proper amount of sleep can do more harm than good over time.  

• Eating balanced meals

      -  Fueling our body with the proper nutrients and foods can give you the energy you need to do the things you love and a better mood.

• Learn to say no

      -  Saying no to situations that are causing you stress or not allowing you to focus on the things that better you are important. 

If you need help finding a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist. If urgent care is more comfortable for you, please visit this site for a list of Atlantic Health urgent cares.