As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on your overall well-being and start prioritizing your mental health. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as maintaining physical health, yet it’s often overlooked. Our mental health influences how we think, feel and interact with others, making it vital to approach it with intention and care.
Albert Ujkaj, MBA, LMSW, Director of Behavioral Health at Hamilton Community Health Network, emphasizes the importance of starting small when working on mental health. “Small, consistent steps can create a ripple effect that leads to big changes. Mental health improvement doesn’t require giant leaps; it’s about doing a little bit each day,” he explains.
Here are five easy and unique ideas to help you maintain your mental health this year:
1. Embrace Creative Expression
Start painting, writing, playing music or crafting. Engaging in creative activities like these can be therapeutic. Creative expression allows you to process emotions, reduce stress and boost self-esteem. Don’t worry about perfection – the act of creating is what matters.
2. Be a Nature Enthusiast
Nature can generate positive emotions, such as calmness, joy and creativity. Take some time to listen to the sounds of nature – they can promote mental clarity and peace. Taking care of houseplants, sitting in the morning sun or even getting some fresh air can all help promote better mental health.
3. Try “Sensory Grounding”
Grounding exercises help anchor you to the present moment by using your senses to regain control when feeling anxious or overwhelmed. If you experience anxiety, nervousness or feel off balance, grounding techniques can help. For example, try putting your hands in water and focusing on how it feels on your fingers, palms and wrists. Another effective method is the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: identify five things you see, four things you can touch, three things you hear, two things you smell and one thing you taste. These techniques can help manage anxiety and restore calm.
4. Declutter Your Digital Space
Clutter can contribute to stress and this includes a cluttered digital environment. Take time to organize your phone, email and computer by deleting unnecessary files, organizing folders and turning off non-essential notifications. A streamlined digital space can help you feel more in control and focused.
5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
There’s no shame in seeking support from a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable tools to cope with challenges and improve overall well-being.
At HCHN, comprehensive behavioral health services are available to everyone. “We believe mental health care should be accessible and inclusive,” says Ujkaj. “Our team is here to support you, no matter your circumstances.” Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression or just need someone to talk to, Hamilton’s licensed professionals are ready to help.
Getting started is simple. You can call 810.406.4246 or visit HamiltonCHN.org to learn more or request an appointment. Services are tailored to meet individual needs and options are available to ensure care is affordable for all.
Improving your mental health doesn’t have to be daunting. As Ujkaj reminds us, “Every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to a healthier, happier you.” Make mental health a priority this year and take that first step today. It’s a decision that can transform your life for the better.
