Protect Your Inner Peace

By Kaylyn Dhaiti
Spectrum Staff Writer

            You are the only person you must live with for the rest of your life. It is important for your inside world to be in balance just as much as the outer world. You will not be able to pour into another cup if your cup is empty. one in five adults experience mental illness each year, according to Psychology Today. Selfcare should be a priority for everyone.

Therapy/Counseling

            Speaking to a professionally trained therapist or even just a family member or friend is one way to guide you through your internal battles. Voicing your deepest thoughts to other people who have emotional intelligence can help you to figure out the root of your emotions. Why do you react this way? Why am I feeling this emotion? Some may not have someone in their life who they can fully be vulnerable with and express their concerns. Some people, men especially, may struggle in silence and view vulnerability as a weakness when in reality there is so much power in understanding your emotions. When someone is emotionally aware they are grounded and able to process their emotions and react in a constructive way when faced with issues. This is why seeking a therapist to help you navigate through stress, relationship problems, anxiety and depression is such a powerful investment. This investment in yourself will teach you skills that will help you for the rest of your life.

            Bowie State University students are blessed to be provided with these services for free. College is a constant battle of finding out who you are and what your purpose is all while trying to balance work, school, and social life. If you are ever feeling overwhelmed never hesitate to reach out to Bowie State’s counseling services, which can be reached at (301)-860-4169 or counselingservices@bowiestate.edu.

Journaling

            Writing down your deepest thoughts is another method of taking care of your mental health. This method, depending on who you are as person, can be a more comfortable and effective way to express yourself rather than voicing your emotions. Journaling forces you to be completely honest with yourself and admit truths that you may not be ready to accept. Recording your day-to-day problems, fears and concerns can help you find what triggers you and bad habits that you may need to grow out of. This is a great way to keep track of your process mentally and see how much you have grown for motivation to keep going. You can never stop learning. This practice is also an amazing way to include positive affirmations and manifestations of your goals in your daily practices.

Exercise/Good Diet

            Exercise is not only a great way to care for your body physically, but it could be a great way to deal with negative emotions such as depression and anger. Exercise is a scientifically proven mood booster. So not only will it reduce your stress and worries, but it will also boost your self-esteem. Creating regular exercise habits contributes to healthy sleeping habits. Making sure you are resting properly plays a major role in your anxiety, productivity and energy overall. Please always listen to your body! It will always show you what it needs.

            You are what you eat! Don’t let that fly overhead. If you constantly indulge in fatty, unhealthy food you will always feel sluggish and tired. According to an article on sutterhealth.org, sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation throughout the body and brain, which may contribute to mood disorders. Changing your diet to healthy choices and drinking plenty of water will show drastic results. It will improve your overall brain function and give you fuel throughout your days to stay productive with high every levels. Once again, this is an investment that will help you in the long run. No matter how difficult it can be to have discipline and stay consistent, remember you have to start from somewhere!

Meditation/Prayer

            No matter your religious or spiritual beliefs, mediation is a great method to clear a clouded and overwhelmed mind. Sitting with yourself and clearing your head of the millions of thoughts running through your brain every day can act as a reset button. Find a quiet place or somewhere where you can play calming music (what every works best for you!) and really mind your own company. Try to silence your thoughts and focus on your breathing. This is a great method for those who suffer from anxiety.

            Prayer is also very helpful no matter what or who you believe in. Having faith will push you through hardships every trip! If you have faith that things will get better and work out for you then you will eventually see those results. You thoughts and the things you say hold so much power in how things will play out for you. Feel every emotion but never sit in it and let it drown you. Think of everything you have overcome and remember your strength.

Do What Makes You Happy

            Do things that genuinely bring you joy... Sober! Whether that means spending the night doing a face mask or cleaning your house in the morning, do things that bring peace of mind. When going through troubling times avoid using alcohol and weed for temporary happiness. When you wake up sober again in the morning your problems will be waiting right there for you, and you will end up getting addicted to chasing the temporary feeling constantly. Get out and go for a walk in nature. Sit down and paint what you feel. Stay off your phones and limit your social media use. Be present, try different things out and find your escape.

            After 2020 the world changed significantly. People started to acknowledge their inner battles. There was even a point in time when requests for a therapist were at an all-time high and it was a struggle to find a therapist available. Mental health issues are normal and never feel ashamed for needing a break. Be kind to others because you never know what they are going through. Most importantly, express kindness and care for yourself daily.