This month’s newsletter focuses on womens health. Regardless of the season, we may face some type of emotional, physical or mental challenge. If not managed, these challenges can make us feel out of control and helpless.
It’s important to know the warning signs of feeling overwhelmed so you take positive action to help cope and effectively manage your life.
Start by reviewing the check-up list below for possible areas of concern. Score yourself from one to ten. If you score over a five in any of the categories and it is a persistent issue check with your doctor and/or mental health counselor to help you identify and consciously change what is keeping you stuck.
Check-up List:
- physical: fatigue, insomnia, increased smoking or alcohol use
- mental: forgetfulness, indecisiveness, constant worrying
- emotional: anxiety, unhappiness, irritability, depression
- occupational: conflict, long hours, inadequate compensation/recognition
- social: isolation, lack of intimate relationships, marital conflict
- spiritual: guilt, despair, shame, hopelessness
Coping skills are essential to enhancing our lives and for maintaining a happier outlook and a healthier body. Here are some suggestions for positive actions to help you cope with the negative challenges.
Positive Actions/Coping Skills:
- physical: exercise, healthy eating, consistent sleep
- mental: identify negative thoughts, ‘ought to and should do’, stimulate your creativity
- emotional: work on your self-esteem, journal your thoughts, talk to someone you trust
- occupational: work on resolving conflict, delegate, work less hours
- social: connect consistently with friends and family, join organizations and clubs, volunteer
- spiritual: pray, meditate, make amends, journal
This balance between both managing the negative experiences and adding to the positive experiences allows us to live healthier, happier lives. Take the challenge check-up and see what happens!