Self Care and Your Well-Being

Breaks and rest are important for your mental and physical well-being. A brisk 5 minute walk can energize you and a minute of slow deep breathing can bring a sense of calm to your day - especially when you are stressed or dealing with difficult situations. Taking breaks to move, breathe or stretch is also important for preventing repetitive motion injuries. As soon as you notice you are holding stress in your body, take time to stretch and breathe deeply for relief.

Try a RECHARGE Video for breathing and stretching

Disruptive Events can catch us off guard at work - death of a co-worker, patient or patron; witnessing a tragic event; workplace violence and even natural disaster. To better understand your reactions and how to care for yourself click on the links below.

• Learn more about disruptive events
• Grief in the workplace

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve your mental health. Regular exercise can have a positive impact on anxiety, depression and your overall mood. Regular exercise can also relieve stress, improve memory and sleep, and help you feel more relaxed. Talk to your healthcare provider before you start a new exercise program if you have a medical condition. Click here to learn more about the mental health benefits of exercise.

Healthy eating is essential for a healthy body and a healthy mind. Stress, upset and mental health issues like depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety can all be impacted by diet. This means moderation with sugar, carbs, alcohol and caffeine and fueling your body more with healthy choices. Check out these articles for more information:

• Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food
• Healthy Gut, Healthy Mind: 5 Foods to Improve Mental Health
• Healthy Diet: Eating with Mental Health in Mind

Remember to contact your physician if you have questions about your diet or physical health.

Meditation can increase our sense of well-being as we begin and end our day with intention and presence of heart and mind. Meditation is scientifically proven to be helpful for both anxiety and depression. Meditation does not have to be complicated. The apps below can help you make this a simple everyday practice:

• Calm
• Headspace
• One Moment Meditation
• Liberate
• Insight Timer

Sleep directly affects our mental and physical health and overall quality of life. Getting enough, good quality sleep is essential for our physical and mental well-being. Get tips on sleeping well. Remember to contact your healthcare provider if getting enough quality sleep continues to be a problem.

Support Systems are our relationships that provide support, caring and encouragement in good times and in difficult times. It is especially important to reach out to our trusted support networks during challenging times. You may also consider making an appointment with an EAP counselor or a provider through your health insurance.