Take a Mental Health Minute

Hi there. Dr. Rick here, 
In today’s world, there are so many factors influencing people's health. Most people I get to talk with are concerned about their future. Whether that’s economic, political, social, or  health related. Since the pandemic in 2020, there has been a major shift in the overall mental health of this country. It’s gotten worse! The incidence of anxiety, depression, isolation, loneliness, and lack of purpose, are affecting almost all of us to some extent. Just do a quick web search on the topic, you will see what I’m talking about. 

The incredible news is there are many free and effective things you can practice to support your mental health. Each day, take a mental health 

moment. Not a whole day off from work, which you may or may not be able to do. But a mental health minute, where you get to focus on your own health and well-being for a short amount of time. All the research shows that if we can live in a world of possibilities and opportunity, this will often lead to major shifts in perception and the mental health disorders listed above. 

How do we do this?

• Get outside in nature.
• Hug a friend. 
• Have a meaningful conversation with somebody. 
• Help someone else. 
• Share how you’re feeling with someone close to you. 
• Do something you enjoy doing, even if it’s just for a few minutes. 
• Take a few deep breaths.
• Laugh! 
• Spend a few undivided minutes connecting with your pet.
• Sing to and talk with your plants while you water them. 
• Love more, think less. At least for a short amount of time. ​

Give yourself a break from the world's problems and focus on what’s right in front of you in this moment. As we pull our attention out of the future and back to the present moment, we all have the possibility of finding joy within each and every precious moment. It’s not what we do, it’s who we are while doing it.  Be creative, find your own ways. Did you find a different way that works? Feel free to share it with me. I’m right there with you.