May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Health is so much more than doctor's visits, how your pants fit, or if you're going to have a heart attack. According to the World Health Organization, health is "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."
Mental well-being is understated. Positive mental health allows people to cope with the stresses of life, grow to their full potential, work productively, and make meaningful contributions to their families and communities. Basically, it's the hidden part of feeling great and working better.
Fit for Freelance is the wellness resource for entrepreneurs and remote workers probably unaware of how to minimize their risk of health issues. It's always a good time to learn about mental health.
Read more: Health and Human Services- What is Mental Health?
Mental health is key to your healthy lifestyle and business!
-Reggie
Early warning signs of challenges (from mentalhealth.gov):
- Eating or sleeping too much or too little
- Pulling away from people and usual activities
- Having low or no energy
- Feeling numb or like nothing matters
- Having unexplained aches and pains
- Feeling helpless or hopeless
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
- Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
- Yelling or fighting with family and friends
- Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
- Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head
- Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
- Thinking of harming yourself or others
- Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school
These symptoms can come with the stresses of being an entrepreneur, but they aren't great for you, and they definitely hold you back from your best work and lifestyle. I always suggest talking to a qualified counselor or therapist whenever you're ready- ain't nothin wrong with that, and nothing bad is going to happen. Do a pro-con list; you'll see!
Sometimes, we simply don't think about the impact of our habits and choices. So in the meantime, take action towards improving your health and learning what you can manage on your own. The Fit for Freelance blog pages will grow your awareness and let you assess whether you could use additional help.