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The Four Ms of Mental Health
Mental health refers to one’s psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It’s how you think, feel, or behave on an ongoing basis. Mental health affects how you live each day, your social interactions, and even your physical health. Likewise, physical health, social connections, and daily routines can also impact your mental health.
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness has been observed in the United States during the month of May. It is no surprise that the ongoing COVID pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of millions of people, including older adults. According to a recent study, one in four older adults reported feeling anxious or depressed during the pandemic.
Now, more than ever, older adults need to prioritize their mental health. Positive mental health not only helps increase productivity but also helps individuals cope with stress. If you’ve been feeling down or anxious amid the COVID pandemic, commit to caring for your mental health. Here are the four “Ms” of mental health to help reduce anxiety.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is being fully present at the moment. It’s being aware of your thoughts and feelings in the present moment, without interpretation or judgment. It can involve deep breathing or guided meditation but doesn’t have to. You can practice mindfulness during any activity, from washing your hands and brushing your teeth to going for a walk or preparing dinner. When you practice mindfulness, you train yourself to become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. You can then dig deeper into what may be at the root of your negative thoughts or feelings instead of ignoring them.
Movement
It is no surprise that movement affects your feelings and vice versa. When you feel tired or sad, you tend to move more slowly than when you’re feeling anxious or happy. Likewise, when you exercise or move around, you can change the way you feel. Exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins are what give you an instant boost in mood. Improve your mental healthy by making exercise a daily habit. If you have limited mobility, try low-impact exercises, such as swimming, seated yoga, or walking. Even movement such as walking outside to get the mail or folding a basket of laundry can help improve your mood.
Mastery
Mastery refers to getting better at something. Whether it’s baking bread, planting a garden, or capturing wildlife through photography, mastery helps improve mental health. It requires great focus and concentration as you work towards improvement. It also takes determination and can build resiliency as you keep trying after a failed attempt. When you finally master a skill, you gain self-reliance and self-confidence.
Meaningful Engagement
Humans are created to be social. We need to connect with others and were not made to live in isolation. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic has forced many older adults into isolation and has limited their opportunities to pursue meaningful engagement. Some older adults need to reestablish their social connections to improve their mental health. As it’s safe, gather with family and friends. Follow the CDC’s recommendations on how to safely visit with others after you’ve been fully vaccinated. Continue to video chat with long-distance family. Consider rejoining social groups that have reopened and follow safe practices to ensure everyone’s safety.
If you are an older adult who has been struggling with feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety, or depression amid the COVID pandemic, know that Visiting Angels Punta Gorda is here to help. We provide a comprehensive approach to senior home care that includes addressing mental health. Our compassionate caregivers are available to assist with a shower or laundry and form genuine companionship with you. They offer meaningful engagement and can assist you as you seek to master a skill. During their visit, they can escort you on a walk to add more movement to your day or assist you as you explore mindfulness. To learn more about elderly home care services from Visiting Angels Punta Gorda, please contact us today by calling 941-347-8288 Charlotte County or 239-226-1620 Lee County.