Dr. Susan Bettis, Director of Training & Clinical Services in our counseling program, offers reflections for Mental Health Month.
“Regardless of whether you rely on meditation, yoga or religion, caring for your soul is an important part of taking care of yourself that can improve physical and mental health along the way.”
May is Mental Health Month. So how is your mental health, today or at this moment? The sun is out, the temperature near perfect and other than a high pollen count all is good. That doesn’t mean that our feelings about life and this world don’t need tending. Being mentally healthy doesn’t mean just not being mentally ill. It includes having a zest and vitality for life. It means being mindful and having good self-care. It also means having a hardy soul, a complex, strong, and colorful soul. One that is there for the good times and most certainly for the bad.
Your soul, your core, your most authentic self is supported by all sorts of gifts. From puppies, kids, friends, chocolate (lots of chocolate) laughter, and humor. It is about an ongoing and successful interaction with the world that is thick with opportunities. Our mental health cannot be created in a vacuum. Seize the day and all that is rich and meaningful that is being offered to you. And don’t forget the chocolate, please!
Mental Health America has highlighted resources #4Mind4Body in four key areas: animal companionship; work-life balance; social connection and recreation; and chronic health conditions & caregiving. You can find a list of resources here.