Last week at Minnechaug was Mental Health Awareness Week. During this time, we recognize the importance of mental health. In recognition of this week, let’s talk about ways we can be kind to ourselves and take care of our mental health. We are going to discuss coping skills, stress relievers, and how to check in with ourselves.

First, let’s talk about coping skills. When something traumatic happens in our lives, we need to take time to cope or grieve. One way we can cope is by talking about our trauma or problems. Therapy, speaking with a trusted adult, talking to parents, journaling, or writing down our feelings can all help us process our emotions. We need to allow ourselves to be present with our feelings and understand that it’s okay to feel down sometimes.

Now, let’s talk about stress relievers. There are a couple of different ways you can manage stress. One method is using breathing techniques, such as tracing your fingers while breathing in for four seconds and then breathing out for four seconds. Another way is closing your eyes and thinking about things that make you happy, like a soccer game you won or a good grade on an essay. Sensory and fidget toys can also be a great way to calm nerves. Yes, they’re fun and colorful, but stress balls are actually useful because when you’re stressed, clenching the muscles in your hand and then easing your grip can help relieve tension.

Lastly, checking in with ourselves is so important. Even though we have very busy schedules as students, athletes, singers, and dedicated workers in whatever our craft may be, we have to remember that checking in with ourselves is just as important as completing an assignment due the next day. One way we can do this is by taking a moment to breathe and reassess our day. After a game or a test, we can do what’s called a mental check-in to see how we feel and talk things out with a peer or friend. Remember that you are never alone, and there is always someone to talk to or something that can help clear your mind.