Getting Mental Health Motivation From Others
By Brandi Goodman
When you're struggling with your own mental health, it can be helpful to see that others are going through the same thing. It's always nice to know that you aren't alone, and what you're experiencing is not unusual. You can get plenty of motivation from others by hearing their story, and then work to better your own situation.
Choose a Worthwhile Support System
It's wise to have a support system around you who will listen and encourage you. You need to choose worthwhile people to have in your system, though. Although some "friends" may say they'll be supportive, many don't know how to actually listen without trying to fix you. Or, they just simply can't understand what it is you're dealing with at the time. Socialize with those that are truly there for you, with no judgment.
Join a Support Group
Support groups have long been utilized by people who need others to get through hard situations. Hearing from other people about similar problems can help you see that you aren't alone. If you're suffering from mental health struggles -- no matter how big or small they seem -- find a support group of like-minded individuals. It gives you a safe space to share and find motivation in what others are sharing.
Follow a Mental Health Blog
Nowadays, you can find many of the answers you're looking for online. A simple search can pull up a ton of mental health blogs that explain exactly what you're going through. Find some blogs written from the writer's perspective that share their firsthand experience with mental health. Reading about how someone else struggled, and what they did to handle it, can be a huge help to you. You'll often find incredibly helpful tips that you can utilize at work or at home.
Don't Forget to Set Your Own Goals
Although it's great to have other people to rely on, and follow some other examples, you still need to set your own goals. Don't just do every single thing that another person did. You aren't the same person with the same personality traits or the same problems. Even if they're very similar, it's still wise to find some of your own path to be sure it's the right one for you. Just because someone suggests you take a walk when you're feeling overwhelmed, for example, doesn't mean you have to do only that every time. Switch it up with a jog in the park instead, or a workout at the gym.
Getting the help you need when you're struggling mentally can be a huge undertaking. You need to find inspiration where you can, and look to receive support where you feel comfortable. There's no wrong way to tackle mental health struggles. Do what feels the best to you by letting others motivate you to find your own path.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Clemente, Calif.