What’s your “go to” method for a mental health reset?

My go to for “relief” had been alcohol. However in 31 years of use, it has really never effectively done anything but increase my pains and problems. I am now working through things with my sponsor and have 21 days happy and sober. I am only as sick as my secrets.

My go to reset is currently getting my 3 under two years old babies in the truck and going for a drive. Sometimes I can’t even keep a clean house taking care of them and going for a drive to get away for 20-40 mins makes a world of difference to be able to reset and be there for them in all the ways they need me to be!

Setting a goal to do with my hobbies. Example: gardening/chickens to reach 30% self sustainability and have good compost for next year. I find anything outdoors is a good reset for me. Hiking with my kids and taking our time to actually look at the plants around us.

My go to method for mental health reset is to clean up my house from top to bottom with my favorite music on. I’m deep cleaning so I’m no longer thinking about anything that’s going on in my life. After I have the house fully cleaned, fresh sheets on the bed, I’m able to relax.

I have a FREE National Parks pass, a FREE State Parks pass and a lifetime fishing license in multiple locations but none of them ever tend to get used. Like it's the tail end of July here and I've not gone anywhere outdoors this year in 2023.

I moved to a small town, it's quiet. What wakes me up in the morning? The sound of birds chirping. We have Red Robins, Finches, Turtle Doves, Humming Birds and a myriad of other assorted flora and fauna. The view from our backyard is a huge mountain range. What helps me stay motivated is my wife and our hound dog Spike or our cat Ryder all of them have unconditional love for me.

I've been doing Tele-Health through the VA now for 6 years. This taught me about mindfulness "staying in the present moment." Not worrying about tomorrow, but enjoying life as it happens today.

Meditation is a great resource because it allows you to train your own mind, to relax, breath, clear your mind and let go of stress. I also enjoy chiropractic care with massage therapy. This helps me feel "normal."

I have MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) and GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) and SI (Suicidal Ideation) I've been dealing with my own mental health issues for the better part of 20+ years stemming from chronic pain issues - why share this? There is an unhealthy stigma around talking about these issues, and if Veterans could find common ground, I feel like this would be a great stepping stone to working on alleviating your own issues before they fester into a full blown crisis.

"The only easy day, was yesterday."

Just found out about the "Lion Roar"...great start for the day...I do it the minute I get in the car so the neighbors don't give me weird looks .

I use to run to clear my head. I can’t anymore because of my lower back injury but there is a wildlife trail near where I live that just centers me. It’s so calm and quiet and the air just seems so fresh. I enjoy walking there.

I spend time reading my Bible or going to church to get mentally reset. That and a lots of prayer.

I like to go fishing. Not necessarily on a boat, mostly bank fishing. I find a quiet spot and commune with nature. It does not matter if I catch anything or not, just the quiet nature is rejuvenating.

I like to ride my bike. It gives me time to meditate and pray, while helping to keep my body fit. And sometimes, I have a lot to meditate on and people to pray for, so I go for a longer ride!!