Simple Things

“Keep it simple and focus on what matters. Don’t let yourself be overwhelmed.” 
Confucius

Try these tips to help keep it simple and find the right balance in your life.*

1. Value yourself:
   Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Make time for your hobbies and favorite projects, or broaden your horizons. 
2. Take care of your body:
   Eat nutritious meals, avoid cigarettes, drink plenty of water, exercise helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods, get enough sleep.
3. Surround yourself with good people:
   Make plans with supportive family members and friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new people, such as a club, class or support group.
4. Give yourself:
   Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else. You’ll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need.
5. Learn how to deal with stress:
   Practice good coping skills: take a walk, play with your pet, do stretching exercises, or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Smile and see the humor in life. 
6. Quiet your mind:
   Try meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve your state of mind and outlook on life. 
7. Set realistic goals:
   Decide what you want to achieve professionally and personally, and write down the steps you need to realize your goals. Aim high, be realistic and don’t over-schedule. You’ll enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you check things off. 
8. Break up the monotony:
   Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. 
9. Avoid alcohol and other drugs:
   Keep alcohol use to a minimum and avoid other drugs. Sometimes people use alcohol and other drugs to “self-medicate” but in reality, alcohol and other drugs only aggravate problems. 
10. Get help when you need it:
    Seeking help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. And it is important to remember that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives. 

*Adapted from the National Mental Health Association/National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare