Why It’s Important to Prioritize Your Mental Health
Recent pushes to “prioritize mental health” have nearly turned the phrase into a buzzword. But what does it truly mean to put your mental well-being first? Mental health is the foundation of a productive, fulfilling life. Sacrificing it isn’t a sign of strength — it’s building your life on a shaky base that’s bound to collapse, taking everything else down with it. Though easier said than done, there are practical ways to prioritize mental health and cultivate a happier, more balanced life.
What is “Mental Health”?
Mental health is the intersection of your social, emotional and psychological well-being. Because these aspects are often abstract, professionals turn to the DSM-5 for guidance in identifying specific diagnoses, such as Major Depressive Disorder or Generalized Anxiety Disorder. However, mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. Even if symptoms like anhedonia, intrusive thoughts, restlessness or a depressed mood don’t lead to a formal diagnosis, they are still significant and deserve attention.
What Causes Mental Health Problems?
Mental health problems can arise from a mix of factors, and there is rarely a single cause. They may develop gradually due to social challenges such as childhood adversity, discrimination, isolation or economic hardship. Genetics can also play a role, and specific experiences like trauma, major life changes or loss can trigger difficulties. In many cases, there may be no obvious cause at all, and that is completely normal.
Why is Mental Health So Important for Your Overall Well-being?
Don’t underestimate the ripple effect of living with untreated mental health challenges. Much like physical health, behavior and decision-making start in the brain. Struggling with your mental health can affect how you show up as a friend, parent, employee, student or family member, influencing your thoughts, actions and interactions. Distorted perceptions, lack of motivation or constant mental strain can become significant obstacles, making it harder to achieve your goals and reach life milestones.
Mental and physical health are closely interconnected. Poor physical health — caused by issues like insomnia, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue or chronic pain — can negatively impact mental well-being. Conversely, untreated mental health challenges can harm physical health by making it difficult to maintain essential self-care, such as eating well, exercising, taking medication or attending to daily hygiene.
How to Prioritize Mental Health in Your Life
1. Maintain Physical Health
Your brain senses physical stressors, which can quickly become mental stressors, because the body and brain are in constant communication. Just as mental health is the foundation of a productive life, physical health is the foundation of mental well-being.
2. Take Frequent Breaks
Short, regular breaks are better for your mental health than long, uninterrupted periods of rest, which can sometimes lead to procrastination or burnout. Use these breaks to relax your mind through activities like journaling, meditation or deep breathing.
3. Life Checkpoints
Give yourself things to look forward to, whether it’s a vacation, a concert, a night out with friends or a family gathering. Having these moments can provide motivation and a sense of hope when life feels overwhelming.
4. Identify Red Flags
Pay attention to habits or patterns that emerge when your mental health is slipping. For example, neglecting basic self-care like showering or doing laundry can be a signal to take a mental health day and focus on regrouping.
5. Reach Out to Friends and Family
Connecting with someone you care about can lift your spirits and lighten your load. Most people genuinely want to support you, and sharing your thoughts can strengthen your bonds and bring a sense of relief.
When Do I Need to Seek Help for Mental Health Issues?
It can be hard to know when to reach out for help, but seeking support is important whenever mental health challenges start to interfere with your daily life. If you notice persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of interest in activities or difficulty managing work, school or relationships, it’s a sign that professional guidance can make a difference.
Reaching out early can prevent issues from escalating and help you build strategies to feel more balanced and resilient. MLB Therapy offers compassionate, personalized support to help you navigate these challenges. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better mental health.