Mindfulness & Mental Health – World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day!

A day for global health education, awareness, and advocacy against

the social stigma of mental health issues.

There is a need for a call to action, today, especially due to the mental health stresses of COVID-19 and how it affects our mental health.  The added addition of forced lifestyle changes from social distancing, wearing masks, and changes in work and school habits, has created an added burden on our mental health.

Statistics are staggering. Close to ONE BILLION people have a mental disorder and anyone, anywhere can be affected.  Depression, anxiety, and substance use are some of the most common mental health conditions.

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2020 is Greater Investment – Greater Access.

The importance of mental health and well-being has been brought to the forefront this year with the worldwide consequences of COVID-19.  The stress and fear cause a heavy burden on our mental health.

One of the greatest investments we can make is to our own mental health practices.  That is where mindfulness comes in to play.   A daily practice of simple mindfulness techniques can bring forth change faster than any other action you can take.

Mindfulness is simply being aware of your thoughts – without judgment.  That right there is a beginning step to help break the stigma of mental health issues.  It is the judgment that creates the barriers, especially within yourself.

The more we practice, the more we invest in ourselves.  It is one of the best self-care tools we can maintain on a daily basis.  Mindfulness is an awareness; moment-by-moment, through a gentle and kind lens of focus.  We pay attention to our thoughts instead of following the runaway train that drags us down the tracks of stress. We can put a halt to the anxiety and stress of the things that are out of our control.

Mindfulness is easy access to mental health care and the greatest investment we can give.

Today is a day for the call of action to do your part.  It is as simple as sitting still with yourself for just a few minutes.  Take a deep breath.  Notice your thoughts.  Notice what you say to yourself.  NOW how can you change that to non-judgment?  Be kind, be compassionate, and be aware of this moment.

It all starts with YOU!

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