Mental Health Check-In

 

Mental Health Check-In: Reflecting on Yesterday's World Mental Health Day



It's true what they say. Sometimes you need to hear it from someone else to believe it.

I recently had a chat with a friend who raised my energy levels a step higher. You might be wondering what he said to me. His words ,to the best of my memory, was that I have a unique energetic character that unknowingly fuels the people around me. "You are excited by everything that comes your way," were his words " But that excitement could ultimately be your downfall". And he brought my greatest fears to reality. Cut them out and tossed them on the grass right in front of me to see clearly. To see how overly invested and committed I have been. How terribly anxiety induced, stressed and burnt-out I could be. This post is a personal reminder to myself I hope it touches more than just me as I write and as you read.

 Yesterday, October 10th, was World Mental Health Day. It's a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental well-being. As we continue to navigate the challenges of life, it's essential to take time for self-reflection and prioritize our mental health. This is something I had long forgotten during this semester. I had hit the road running blindly without realizing I was running in a forest.

In this blog post, we'll explore some questions to help us do a mental health check-in and reflect on our experiences over the past year. We'll also discuss strategies for managing burnout, stress, and anxiety.

Reflecting on the Past Year - Journal Time! 

  • How have you been feeling physically and emotionally? Have you experienced any significant changes in your mood, energy levels, or overall well-being?
  • What were some of the major events or challenges you faced in the past year? How did these events impact your mental health?
  • Have you been able to manage stress and anxiety effectively? What strategies have worked well for you, and what areas could you improve upon?
  • Have you been taking care of your physical health? Are you getting enough sleep, exercise, and healthy food?
  • Have you been spending time with loved ones and engaging in activities you enjoy? Social connection and hobbies can play a vital role in maintaining mental well-being.

Understanding Burnout, Stress, and Anxiety

Burnout, stress, and anxiety are common mental health challenges. It's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of these conditions so that you can take steps to address them.

Signs of burnout:

  • Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained and lacking energy.
  • Physical symptoms: Experiencing headaches, fatigue, or digestive problems.
  • Reduced productivity: Struggling to concentrate or complete tasks.
  • Cynicism: Feeling detached or disengaged from work or other responsibilities.

Signs of stress:

  • Physical symptoms: Experiencing rapid heartbeat, sweating, or muscle tension.
  • Emotional symptoms: Feeling irritable, anxious, or overwhelmed.
  • Cognitive symptoms: Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Signs of anxiety:

  • Excessive worry: Constantly worrying about future events or negative outcomes.
  • Physical symptoms: Experiencing rapid heartbeat, sweating, or difficulty breathing.
  • Avoidance behavior: Avoiding situations or activities that trigger anxiety.

Strategies for Managing Burnout, Stress, and Anxiety

  • Practice self-care: Prioritize activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
  • Set boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that are overwhelming or draining.
  • Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.
  • Seek social support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups.
  • Seek professional help: If you're struggling to manage burnout, stress, or anxiety on your own, consider talking to a therapist or counselor.


Taking the time to do a mental health check-in can provide valuable insights into your well-being. By understanding the signs of burnout, stress, and anxiety, and implementing effective coping strategies, you can prioritize your mental health and live a more fulfilling life. Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources available to help you.

I am currently on day 5 of my Mindfulness Challenge on the Gratitude App

When you have the time, join me in this prompt:

'Write about a simple joy you experienced recently'

Share this with anyone you think might need it.

Stay Blessed and Thank you for reading.

Proverbs 16:3


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