How to Protect Your Mental Health As A Female (Part II)

Prioritizing your mental health is as important as your physical health. Regardless of the challenges faced at school, work, family, and society, it is necessary to find a balance. Here are more ways to protect your mental health as a female.

1. Stress Management

Chronic stress have significant impact on mental health. Relaxing techniques such as yoga or meditation help reduce stress. Dedicate 15-20 minutes daily to these activities. When done consistently, you will notice a significant drop in your stress levels. Over time, it helps manage negative thoughts and feelings.

2. Prioritize Self-care

Self-care goes beyond treating yourself to nice things or activities; it includes taking the time to mentally and physically recharge. Most women feel guilty for taking time off from responsibilities to focus on themselves because society makes it so. It is wrong! Self-care is crucial for long-term mental health. Therefore, create time for activities that make you happy. It could be going to the cinema, swimming, exploring the world, skiing, or skydiving. Schedule some “me time” into your routine and ensure you stick to it.

3. Setting Boundaries

Women often struggle with the ability to say “No” and how to set boundaries. Most times, it’s the fear of being perceived as demanding, self-centered or selfish. We have found ourselves in situations that could have been avoided if we had set clear boundaries. It could be in your relationships, workplace, family, or friendships. It is advisable to set clear boundaries and limits. Know when to turn down a request or activity that will affect your mental health negatively. It might include reducing your social commitments or managing work and other activities that require you to step out of your boundaries.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Needs

Women are often perceived as caretakers and, therefore, should prioritize the needs of others over their own. While it’s good to be selfless and caring, neglecting one’s needs can be mentally draining. Identify areas you have neglected because you wanted to please others. Ensure you go out of your way to say “yes” to your needs.

5. Empower Yourself Through Learning and Growth

When people hear about empowerment, the first thing that comes to mind is youth empowerment, but we also have women’s empowerment. Empowerment means personal growth that is beneficial for our mental health. Personal growth means several things to different women. For some, it includes taking courses or reading; for others, exploring new hobbies and engaging in activities that will improve their personal growth.

6. Practice Detachment in Toxic Relationships

Detaching yourself from toxic relationships, whether romantic, friendship, or family, has a significant impact on your mental health. Often, some women hold onto toxic relationships because of the fear of being lonely, and others see it as an obligation, even though it can be mentally and physically draining. Some are even violent. By detaching yourself from toxic relationships and situations, you protect your mental health. Identify areas that cause you distress and emotional or physical pain, and let go of them. Initially, it may be hard, but it will improve. Also, you can surround yourself with positive people who can speak positively and radiate positivity into your life or situation. READ ALSO: How to Protect Your Mental Health As A Female (Part I)

Conclusion

As a woman, protecting your mental health should be your principal focus. By detaching yourself from toxic relationships, setting boundaries, learning how to say no, prioritizing self-care, and handling stress, you can be sure that your mental health level will increase. Finally, remember that there are people who love you, support you, and are ready to help you through this journey.