The Nauti Truth: mental health is important

                                                    ☺Happy Wellness Wednesday☺



Today I wanted to do a quick piece on something I believe is crucial for health and wellness. Being healthy and fit doesn't only encompass your physical abilities and the food you eat, but your mental health as well.

I don't feel like people emphasize the importance of mental health enough, especially as young college women, there are many different hardships that we face everyday and it is important that we feel comfortable with dealing with them. Mental health is a hard topic to discuss, because we feel as though no one else understands exactly what we are going through, but it is surprising to find out just how many people have similar stories or insecurities as we do. 

     

Although everyone has different things going on in their lives, there are still little things we can do to improve our mental health each day.

 Such as:

1. Do something you enjoy each day, whether it be reading a book, going on a run, taking a bath, or just watching a show at the end of the night, it can really boost your mood throughout the day if you have something to look forward to.

2. Our physiological responses in our bodies affect our mood way more than we realize. Exercising releases endorphins that make us happier and can help lower levels of stress and anxiety as well! Also eating a good meal can help us to feel more lively and release some chemical endorphins as well so treat yourself sometimes ya know. 

3. Getting good sleep is really important. I've noticed this with myself that every time I pull an all-nighter or something I feel super anxious at the end of the day it's no bueno. Set a sleeping schedule for yourself, yes we're adults now and have no bedtimes but whatever, it still feels good to wake up a decent time and enjoy your morning feeling relaxed and energized for the day. 

4. Another thing that really helps, especially in college, is to allow your self to take a break. When there is a constant stressor in your life, your body is using so much energy to try and adjust that you end up exhausted and it can have a negative toll on both your physical and mental health. I know sometimes it feels like we have no time to take a break, but it should definitely be a priority because it will contribute to better results in the long run. Even if its taking like 15 minutes to go take a walk, pet a dog, or do some yoga, anything helps.

5. My last point is something that I found always helps me the most. Talk about it. It is ok to open up to other people, no matter how big or small you think your problems are, the people that care about you shouldn't judge you and want to be there for you, like your sisters :) So many of us have gone through similar things and it can be reassuring and comforting to hear another person's point of view and advice on something. Even if they don't quite understand, having someone listen to you and support you can help make you feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders. Some people might need more help than others, and it's ok to accept it. It takes time to feel better about somethings but having someone on your side whether its a friend, family member, therapist, doctor, or even pet haha, can help you to feel like you are not alone. I know I really appreciate all the people who have been there for me when I have had tough times and I hope I can do the same for others when they need me the most.

 Ok that's all for now, I hope you all have a great week and remember to prioritze your mental health, especially with finals soon oof. But it's ok because we're all in it together. ♥♥♥

                                                                        -Hayley