Knowing When It’s Time to Make a Radical Shift for Your Wellness

Recognizing when it’s time to make a significant change in your life for the sake of your wellness is crucial. This awareness often arises from noticing persistent signs of deteriorating mental health. Understanding these signs and conducting a thorough self-inventory can help you realize the importance of investing in your well-being now.

Signs of Deteriorating Mental Health

Mental health issues can manifest in various ways, often subtly at first. Here are some common signs that your mental health may be deteriorating:

1. Chronic Stress: Feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and unable to manage stress effectively.
2. Persistent Fatigue: Experiencing constant tiredness, even after adequate rest.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Struggling with insomnia, oversleeping, or disrupted sleep.
4. Mood Swings: Experiencing extreme mood changes, irritability, or heightened emotional sensitivity.
5. Withdrawal: Isolating yourself from friends, family, and activities you once enjoyed.
6. Lack of Concentration: Finding it difficult to focus, make decisions, or complete tasks.
7. Physical Symptoms: Experiencing unexplained aches, pains, or digestive issues.
8. Negative Thoughts: Frequent negative thinking, self-doubt, or feelings of hopelessness.
9. Substance Use: Increasing reliance on alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope.
10. Loss of Interest: Losing interest in hobbies, work, or life in general.

Taking a Self-Inventory

A self-inventory is a reflective process that helps you assess your current mental, emotional, and physical state. Here’s how you can perform a self-inventory:

1. Set Aside Time: Dedicate uninterrupted time for self-reflection. Find a quiet space where you can think clearly.
2. Reflect on Emotions: Identify and acknowledge your current emotions. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or indifferent?
3. Assess Your Stress Levels: Consider the sources of stress in your life. Are they manageable, or are they overwhelming?
4. Evaluate Your Physical Health: Pay attention to any physical symptoms you’re experiencing. Are they new or worsening?
5. Examine Your Relationships: Reflect on your interactions with others. Are you feeling connected or isolated?
6. Review Your Daily Routine: Look at how you spend your time. Are you engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment?
7. Consider Your Coping Mechanisms: Assess how you’re coping with challenges. Are your coping strategies healthy and effective?
8. Set Goals: Identify areas where you need improvement. Set realistic goals for making positive changes.

Investing in Your Well-Being

Recognizing the need for a radical shift is the first step toward better mental health. Here are some ways to invest in your well-being:

1. Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor for support.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. This includes exercise, proper nutrition, and relaxation.
3. Build a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family.
4. Engage in Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, or yoga into your daily life to reduce stress and enhance self-awareness.
5. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to demands that overwhelm you. Protect your time and energy.
6. Pursue Joy: Engage in activities and hobbies that bring you joy and satisfaction.
7. Educate Yourself: Learn about mental health and wellness. Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions about your well-being.
8. Take Small Steps: Start with small, manageable changes. Gradual progress can lead to significant improvements over time.

Acknowledging when it’s time to make a radical shift for your wellness is a powerful step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. By recognizing the signs of deteriorating mental health and taking a proactive approach to self-care, you can invest in your well-being and create a positive, lasting impact on your mental and emotional health.

At MindfulTay, we specialize in creating and operating innovative, strength-based, trauma-focused wellness programs and services. Contact us today to begin your team’s wellness journey. 

 

Tamar Draughn, LPC

CEO/Owner, Phoenix Wellness Solutions

CEO/Owner, MindfulTay