5 Easy Ways to Focus on Your Mental Health

By Sharawn Tipton, Chief People Officer at LiveRamp

With Mental Health Awareness Month underway, it's important to take moments to recognize the state of our emotional and physiological well-being, while exploring new ways to take care of our mental health year round. While the pandemic, social injustice, and current events spanning the past two years have created a mental burden, it has also led us to being more open to discussing and embracing our mental health. Until recently, conversations on mental health were not openly discussed in the Black community. I’m glad to see that this is slowly changing, as more people are open to joining the conversation, and in doing so, helping themselves and others.?

Simply speaking, mental health days are intentional times we take to look after our mind and body and focus on ourselves. Burnout is real, and taking mental health days is a great step to avoiding it while promoting overall well-being.?

The reality is, mental health and physical health are interconnected. So how exactly do we take care of our mental health? While this can be deeply personal, there are simple and low-cost ways to show up for yourself. Here are five practical ways to spend a mental health day, and do something for yourself intentionally.

1. Unplug and unwind

Amidst a digital-first world, it's more important than ever to unplug and be present with ourselves; immerse yourself in the outside world and leave your phone at home. Studies show that being outside in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. In one study featured by the Yale School of the Environment , a research team in the UK found that it takes 120 minutes a week in nature (that’s less than 20 minutes per day!) for people to feel healthier and happier. ?Unplugging from technology and spending time outdoors—even if it’s just a walk around your block—is a low-cost way to give your mind a break and refocus so you can be more present.

2. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of “being intensely aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment,” according to the Mayo Clinic . Practicing mindfulness can help control our thoughts and have a positive effect on our overall mental health. Using mindfulness can also help us develop essential self-care habits to nourish our bodies and minds, like ensuring enough rest, recognizing that our body needs a break, and exercising, if and how we’re able to, through regular workouts or stretching at home.

3. Take advantage of your employer resources

I encourage you to take advantage of the mental health resources your employer provides, whether that's through health care insurance options or discounted therapy. At LiveRamp, mental health is a top priority, and we understand it’s vital to be the best versions of ourselves. LiveRamp provides these resources through Talkspace , our Employee Assistance Program, among other benefits for LiveRampers seeking to connect with a professional.

4. Get active?

Aside from improving physical health, research also shows that getting the blood flowing is linked to reduced stress, tension, and anxiety, suggesting that it’s a valid form of self-care all on its own. So try a hike, yoga, biking, or any form of exercise you prefer as a tool for promoting personal wellness.

5. Stop and smell the flowers

Stopping to enjoy small aspects of the day can calm your nervous system and your mind. As cliché as this may seem, it's key to personal contentment. Try visiting a local park or community garden on your break at work to appreciate the beauty in nature. Although these activities do not serve as a "cure" for mental disorders, they are helpful and important for maintaining good mental health.