Keep Your Mind Healthy and Positive

Now more than ever, many of us are having a difficult time keeping our minds in a healthy place. Constantly balancing the chaos of things going on around us with the feelings of isolation from staying at home makes it extremely challenging to keep our positive mental energy flowing.

October was National Positive Attitude Month. What better time to remind ourselves to try to filter out the bad and focus on the good. Here are a few suggestions to try when having moments of mental struggle:

Limit your news watching to prevent constant influx of negative influences

Keeping informed is important, but too much can become overwhelming.

Social media can be fine in moderation, but less effective when overused

Podcasts and online courses can help keep your mind focused on something positive

There are many creative on-line outlets for kids, everything from the arts or enhanced learning programs

For adults there are a variety of positive informative options, from professional programs to self-improvement

Home projects or crafts can channel your energy and provide a sense of accomplishment

Tackle long overdue home improvement projects

Hone your skills in the kitchen

Try some new fall recipes including seasonal ingredients such as apples or different squashes

Cook up a big pot of soup or chili to keep warm on the chilly nights ahead

Tap into your creative side with an art project. If you’re not sure how to get started, research some online programs or kits to get started

Reading can be a great escape!

Check out the newest novel using the New York Time Bestseller list, any of the various reading apps, or suggested reading lists at your local library or bookstore

Expand your mind with non-fiction on a topic which interests you, try a biography about someone you admire

Spend time outside of the house

Take walks daily, enjoy the brisk air and the changing colors of the leaves

Enjoy your favorite sport or outdoor activity with your family

Bundle up and patronize your local restaurants, enjoy some of the creative ways businesses have enhanced outdoor dining with heaters or bubbles for you to cozy up in with your loved ones

Remember, you’re not alone! Many are struggling with challenges during this difficult time. Try to focus on the positive and utilize some of these ideas to bring joy, positivity and smiles into your days.

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental illness, please visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at https://www.nami.org/Home or call the support line at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)