Prioritizing Mental Health

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned the hard way, it’s this: prioritizing mental health isn’t selfish. It’s necessary! For years, I put myself last—after my kids, my spouse, my job, and even the endless pile of laundry. Like so many women, I convinced myself that everyone else’s needs came first. But somewhere along the way, I lost sight of myself. And when I finally hit a wall, I realized something had to change. My mental health was not optional; it was foundational.

prioritizing mental health

I know I’m not alone in this struggle. For many of us, especially mothers, life becomes a balancing act of responsibilities, expectations, and unspoken pressures. And while we might joke about needing more chocolate or a girls’ night out to cope, the truth is, our mental health deserves more than just bandaid solutions. It deserves our attention, care, and yes—priority.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling like your drowning, or simply that your own mental health has been shuffled to the back burner, I want you to know three things: You’re not alone. You’re not failing. And it’s never too late to make some changes!

Why Mental Health Matters for Women

Mental health isn’t just about feeling “happy” or avoiding stress; it’s about your overall well-being. It affects how you think, feel, and act. It’s tied to your physical health, your relationships, and even your ability to tackle everyday tasks. And yet, as women, we often dismiss our own mental health as less important than the demands of those around us, or our running To-do lists constantly going in our heads. 

But here’s the thing: when we neglect our mental health, it doesn’t just affect us. There is a significant ripple effect. When I was at my lowest, I had less patience with my kids, less energy for my spouse, and less focus at work. It was a wake-up call that taking care of myself wasn’t just for me—it was for everyone I cared about.

Women, especially mothers, are at a higher risk for mental health struggles due to factors like hormonal changes, caregiving responsibilities, and societal expectations. According to the World Health Organization, women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience depression. And yet, many of us still hesitate to seek help or even admit that we’re struggling. “Ain’t Nobody Got Time for That” much? 

prioritizing mental health

My Own Turning Point

I’ll be honest: asking for help wasn’t easy for me. It felt like admitting defeat. But the day I finally opened up to a close friend about how overwhelmed I was, I felt an immediate sense of relief. She didn’t judge me or offer quick fixes; she just listened. That conversation was the first step toward prioritizing my mental health.

From there, I started small. I made a point to carve out 10 minutes a day just for me—whether it was journaling, taking a walk, or even just sitting quietly with my warm morning tea. I began to set boundaries, learning to say “no” to things that drained me. And eventually, I sought professional help, which was a game-changer.

Practical Ways to Prioritize Your Mental Health

If you’re ready to make your mental health a priority, here are some simple steps to get started:

  1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Start by being honest with yourself about how you’re feeling. Whether it’s stress, sadness, or anxiety, acknowledging and naming your emotions is the first step toward addressing them.

  2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” without guilt. Protect your time and energy by setting limits with work, family, and social commitments.

  3. Create a Routine: Consistency can be incredibly grounding. Whether it’s a morning walk, a bedtime ritual, or a weekly yoga class, find routines that nurture your mental well-being and that you even look forward to!

  4. Connect with Others: Don’t underestimate the power of community. We need each other! Reach out to friends, join a support group, or even find an online community where you can share and connect. Be awkward! Reach out, and put yourself out there. 

  5. Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling, therapy can be life-changing. A trained counselor or therapist can provide tools and strategies to help you navigate challenges. 

  6. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Remember that it’s okay to have bad days, and it’s okay to ask for help. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough. Self compassion changes everything. 

prioritizing mental health

The Role of Self-Care

When we talk about prioritizing mental health, self-care is often part of the conversation. But let’s be clear: self-care isn’t just bubble baths and spa days (though those are great, too!). Real self-care is about meeting your needs, whether that’s getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, or setting aside time for hobbies that bring you joy.

For me, self-care also meant letting go of perfectionism. I stopped trying to be the “perfect” mom, wife, and employee, and started focusing on being a healthier, happier version of myself. And you know what? My family didn’t need me to be perfect; they needed me to be present.

Overcoming the Guilt

One of the biggest hurdles to prioritizing mental health is guilt. We’re so used to putting others first that taking time for ourselves can feel selfish. You worry you’re letting others down or failing to meet expectations. But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your mental health is one of the best things you can do for your loved ones because it allows you to show up as your best self. Shifting your perspective on this is life changing!

The Bigger Picture

Prioritizing mental health isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. When we take care of our mental well-being, we’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges, build stronger relationships, and find joy in the everyday moments. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. You will never regret investing in yourself now. No one wants to look back on their life with regret. 

Conclusion: You Deserve This

If there’s one message I hope you take away from this, it’s that prioritizing your mental health is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. You deserve to feel good—not just for your family, your job, or anyone else, but for you. Your mental health matters because you matter.

So, start small. Take a deep breath. Reach out for support if you need it. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Together, we can break the stigma and make mental health a priority for everyone. You will also be setting an example and precedent for those around you. Let the ripple effect be a positive shift for the lives of everyone around you. 

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