Mental health encompasses: Emotional, Psychological And Social Health. That means how you are feeling, what you are going to do next and how you relate to those around you including your loved ones. A lot of people prioritize physical health, which might translate into how you look in your favorite pair of jeans. I get it… It’s Easier To Fix What You See.

BUT,

There are also signs to look for when evaluating your mental health. No, it won’t be as simple as trying on clothes in your closest and realizing that you Just..Can’t..Pull..These..Pants..Up. NOPE! You really have to do some self-reflection to come to any kind of conclusion. Paying attention to how you are feeling, the things you are thinking/saying and how you are acting are key! Also, your sleep pattern can be a tell-tale sign that something is off. As a MUM, I dare not assume that a good night’s rest is a usual event in any MUM’s life, especially if you have a newborn in the house, but..I will say that sleep is very important for your mental well-being and you need it desperately.

Look to those around you for help in identifying changes in your mental health as well. Sometimes, the people close to you may notice that something is different about you. Maybe you don’t talk to them as much as you used to. Maybe you don’t participate in outings anymore or when you are around them, they say things like you don’t seem like yourself lately. Or Geesh, somebody’s attitude has taken a turn for the worst!(ok, if you get this, run away from this person, fast! And don’t look back because, they will NEVER GET IT!!!!

But..

if your friend says, Oh Sweetie, is everything ok with you, you are just not, you know, yourself? And if you ask them why and they tell you that you are wearing your shirt inside out or that you are still rocking yourself, after you put the child down for a nap 5 minutes ago!!!…Keep this friend. In fact, spill your guts to them. THEY CARE!!!

Anywho, I digress

As I was saying, Mental Health is a Huge part of Self-Care and you need to make sure that you are taking good care of your mind as well as you are doing your body, if not better. So, whatever the case, and however you come to the realization that your mental health is out of whack, start doing something to get back to that good place. Below is a diagram showing some possible questions to ask yourself that may trigger you to see that something about you has changed, and Not In A Good Way. Also, follow this link to some resources that may help you in identifying and managing your challenges as well.