The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Well-being

Humans, today, find themselves in an ever-evolving dynamic world, where balancing pressures, expectations and a myriad of responsibilities - both personal and professional - can often feel challenging and overwhelming. In such circumstances, we are slowly inching towards a culture that prioritizes the Self and the concept of Self Care is being given prominence, in an attempt to bring harmony.

As per the WHO - a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity - constitutes good health. In this context, Self-care is an umbrella term, colloquially used, referring to various? conscious actions that are practiced with the intention to alleviate stress, bring a sense of slowness and calm, to recharge and relax and to foster positivity and gratitude in an otherwise highly stressful environment.

It is a unique, individualized experience wherein, one explores activities that help them achieve a sense of well-being. For some individuals, self care may take the shape of setting boundaries in their interpersonal relationships, others may inculcate habits in their routine that promote a healthier lifestyle, for instance - physical exercise, eating clean, engaging in hobbies like painting or dancing. Some may focus on channeling spirituality and practicing mindfulness relaxation.

The positive impact that regular self-care practices have on mental health cannot be overstated. Practices like mindfulness or meditation significantly contributes in lowering cortisol levels, resulting in improved relaxation.

Similarly, engaging in activities that use a creative medium, like painting or dancing, provides an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation. By prioritizing self-care, individuals build a foundation for better coping mechanisms and emotional stability. Realising its significance, and the role that various stakeholders play in cultivating it's practice, can lead to improved mental health outcomes universally.

Role of Organizations

Most of us spend a significant part of our day at work making it imperative for us to incorporate self care at work. While self-care starts with the self, employers also play a crucial role in creating conducive environments to make self care possible. Organisations that recognize the link between self-care and productivity can implement the following strategies to promote a psychologically safe and well balanced environment.

? Flexible Work : Giving employees agency over their work schedules , such as through promoting remote work, setting their own deadlines or allowing flexible hours, enables them to attend to personal needs without compromising their professional responsibilities. This flexibility reduces stress and fosters a sense of trust and autonomy.

? Access to Mental Health Resources: Creating an environment where one can openly discuss their mental health helps in reducing the stigma often associated with seeking support. Providing access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and mental health experts empowers employees to engage in help seeking behaviours.

? Encouraging Breaks: Organisations can promote a culture where employees are encouraged to take regular breaks, disconnect after working hours and utilise vacation days, without being judged. This helps foster feelings of trust and automnomy while at the same time makes employees feel respected.

? Creating a Supportive Culture: A workplace culture that values empathy, respect, and open communication enhances employees' sense of belonging and emotional safety. Employers who are trained to recognize signs of stress or burnout can provide timely interventions and support.

Resources for Employees

For individuals looking to practice self-care and enhance their understanding of the various benefits of self care on well being, the following ways can be considered

? Engaging in Hobbies - taking out time to engage in hobbies and other activities that can be pleasurable is a good start to practicing self care. Reading, painting, playing an instrument, dancing or singing, cooking, gardening etc are few to begin with?

? Investing in relationships - taking out time for our loved ones, including our friends and family can be fulfilling for those who are spending long hours at work?

? Investing in health - prioritizing one's physical health - by focusing on regular exercise, healthy diet and a good sleep hygiene can have a positive impact on one's well being?

? Using smart tools - trying new techniques to make work easier by using time management apps, calendars or organisers can help in decluttering one's schedule thus, reducing feelings of overwhelm and promoting productivity

? ? Expanding knowledge - for some it also helps to read books, listen to podcasts or use apps that promote healthy living by practical tips to self care, mindfulness and inculcating positive habits?

? Engaging in Help seeking behaviours - The ultimate way of caring for the self is to recognise that? one is struggling and needs to seek help. This can be in the form of speaking to a colleague, senior, family member or friend along with being open to speaking to a mental health expert Self-care is an integral aspect of maintaining mental well-being, allowing individuals to navigate life and it’s challenges. By adopting proactive self-care habits, individuals can safeguard their mental health. At the same time, employers that prioritize self-care are able to create a culture of safety, security and productivity. Collaboratively, these efforts create a healthier, more sustainable environment? and improved? mental health at the workplace?