What’s something you do to prioritize your mental health?

+I do woodworking to keep my mental health under control

About 3 months ago I spent a little over a week in psych. Got a lot of issues resolved that had been building up for a long time. After that I've really been trying to share my story, what happened, and what going to psych is really like. It helped me so much and if I can help one person get past the "loony bin" stigma and get help...
Ever sense then, I've been focusing a lot more on my mental health. Going for walks in the woods, taking a few minutes to practice mindfulness, and just slowing down in general.

The most important thing for me is to stay socially connected. Having a network of friends and family members is one of the most important things to keep you grounded. When I first started showing symptoms of PTSD, it was my best friend who noticed the warning signs and pushed me to get help. And when you reach a low, having someone to call is a lifeline.

The day-to-day things are getting a good night's sleep whenever possible and managing stress levels. Stress can take a situation from bad to worse. Learning not to worry, not to take on too much, and to let go are vital.

I fish

I remember 2 things. The first is because of my life experiences and the second is because of my job.
1. Life is like your digestive track. Everything passes. No matter what it is, it goes in one end and comes out the other so if bad things are happening, Be Patient, they will pass.
2. No matter what happens, there is always someone who has it worse and they are dealing with it, you can too. When I got to feeling sorry for myself, I would go up to our Intensive care unit and see the patients. It left me with the feeling of "There but for the grace of God is me. It is a rare, thankful feeling.
My father said it best, "Suicide is a PERMANENT solution to a TEMPORARY problem. Have Patience."

SMSgt Retired USAF, Faye P Jones

One of the things I do to prioritize my mental health is I make these "Thanks Living Boxes" to donate or to present as gifts. I ran across this ideal in one of my Daily Devotional books and I loved the concept. I take a simple unstained recipe sized boxes and decorate them with beautiful jewelry pieces from my personal collection, pieces from the collection my mom left me, other jewelry pieces I find at really great prices, and a variety of different ornaments. Every box has to have one or more butterflies pieces as well as pearls. Monthly index card tabs and a set of blank index cards are included inside of the box. The top of the box displays the message/purpose of the importance of the box and how to use the box in maturing in ones spiritual life and becoming more thankful by writing a note each day of the month for one thing you thank God for and place it in the box. At the end of the year read through the notes and find yourself thanking God again for everything He had done, i.e. a stroll in the park, a surprise visitor, a smile that brighten a strangers day, and other times He provided peace beyond understanding to deal with a difficult situation. One will see that they have many reasons to thank God. Many people have told me that I should sell these boxes. My answer to them is, "It would take all of the joy of making them. I love making them and they are truly a mental stress reliever for me.

Stay sober and clean

This is a hard one for me. My mental health has not been great for a long time now, I try to practice mindfulness but I often forget to do so. I know I need to make lifestyle changes like getting into a workout routine and getting outdoors more but I don't have the will to follow through with things. I was told to find hobbies or activities that make me happy but I can't think of anything that really does so for me any longer. I think the only thing I actually do consistently is to seek help when I need it. I also try not to spiral down too far, I've gotten pretty adept at catching myself when I am going down and work my way back up. I'm fortunate to have a caring and supportive family, I do give gratitude for that as often as I can remember to do so.

To prioritize my mental health i keep my brain active by learning languages; also i play word games. For physical support i exercise and do every chore i can find. Signed Sgt. E4 James George.

I prioritize my mental health by not allowing negative people in my life and most of all, attending Church and Bible study to stay encouraged and focused on my purpose for life.