What is self-care? How can practicing self-care help with my mental health?

What is self-care? 

Self-care is the practice of taking regular action to protect our well-being and happiness, especially in times of stress.  

Self-care is not just one action; it is the ongoing practice of choosing activities that help you care for your mental and emotional well-being. Some self-care practices apply to everyone and may seem obvious – get enough sleep, move your body throughout the day, and eat food that helps nourish and energize your body. However, most self-care practices are unique to each person, their needs, and their interests.  

What are some examples of self-care? 

• The basics: get enough sleep, move your body throughout the day, eat food that helps nourish and energize your body  

• Social support: lean on your people when you need help, open up about your hardships, strengthen personal and professional relationships  
• Fun and play: laugh, play games, be silly, attend a sporting event, watch a comedy show, try something new   
• Meaning and purpose: do things that make you feel connected to your values like volunteering your time or visiting your place of worship  
• “You” things: choose activities that help you feel a sense of flow e.g., learning a new skill, creating art, weightlifting, making music, solving puzzles, woodworking, etc.   

How is self-care related to mental health? 

When you go through things like losing a loved one, getting laid off, or getting in a fight with a friend, it’s normal to feel stressed. Self-care helps protect your mental health from the effects of stress. When you regularly choose activities that help strengthen your physical health, emotional well-being, social support, and sense of purpose, it feels easier to bounce back when life hits you with the hard stuff. Regular self-care practice helps you to be resilient.  

What are some resources to help me practice self-care for my mental health? 

• NAMI Blog: Why You Struggle with Self-Care the author discusses 4 reasons you might struggle with self-care.  

• GoodRx: 99 Self-Care Activities You Can Try Right Now provides an overview of self-care and 99 different activities to help you practice self-care today.  
• Jed Foundation: Press Pause lists activities to help you tap into your playful side, embrace joy, and find meaningful connections.  
• Psychology Today: Five Self-Care Ideas for the Modern Man reminds us that self-care means more than lighting some candles and highlights five wellness activities men can do to practice self-care.   
• Tulane University Self-Care Resources offers self-care activities in four different categories: meditate, get moving, connect, and indulge. Example activities include a “do-nothing” meditation, virtual famous landmark tours, and a make your own music activity.  

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