As we conclude Suicide and Mental Health Awareness Month, here are a few healthy practices that can be easily integrated into your daily life. The idea is that a lot of small, concerted actions can add up to a significant overall effect. Apply some of these ideas on a regular basis and you’ll find yourself feeling rejuvenated and more confident:

• Learn how to cope with negative thoughts: Negative thoughts can be insistent and loud: don’t let them take over. Distract yourself or comfort yourself if you can’t solve a problem right away. Try seeing the issue from all sides rather than from just one point of view.

• Be in the present: When you’re out for a walk or socializing, turn off the cell phone and take in all the sights and sounds around you.

• ‘Collect’ positive emotional moments: Make a point of thinking about the times when you’ve felt pleasure, comfort, tenderness, confidence or other positive emotions.

• Enjoy hobbies: A hobby helps bring balance to your life. You’re doing something because you want to, not because you have to. There’s no pressure. It’s a form of mental stimulation too.

• Treat yourself well: It could be a good meal, a bubble bath, a movie, or just sitting in the park enjoying nature. Small daily treats have a cumulative effect.

• Live a healthier, more active life: Eat healthy foods, be active and get enough sleep. Regular physical activity is good for the mind. It can even reduce depression and anxiety. Share your activity with others; social connections are beneficial too.

If you are struggling with your mental health and need immediately help, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline by dialing 988 or reach out to the Dubuque chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.namidubuque.org/local-resources

God's peace,
Deacon Nicholas Elliott