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How Giving Yourself a Break Can Improve Your Mental Health

Written By: Aletta

As a teenager, I never realized how much stress could impact my mental health until I missed the last month of 8th grade. I felt overwhelmed by school, social life, and family problems. I didn’t realize how stressed and overworked I was until it all suddenly came out. The truth is, feeling hurt is a universal fear, but it’s something we have to feel in order to heal. Keeping those feelings hidden only made things worse as I was doing more harm than good.

Why Teenagers Need to Prioritize Mental Health

As teenagers, we are new to this world. We shouldn’t be expected to know everything or to be the “Perfect Student” or “Perfect Child.” But here’s the thing: growing up means making mistakes, and that’s okay. It’s a natural part of the process, and it doesn’t mean we’re failing. What we really need is someone to trust who can guide us.

Therapy Helped Me Process My Emotions

I’ve been in therapy for three years now, and I’ve grown so much as a result. I’ve learned how to process all the negative things in my life and turn them into positives. As I grew up, I realized how much pressure I put on myself and how that impacted my mental health. I wanted to be the best, but I didn’t allow myself time to rest. The most important lesson I’ve learned is how important rest and self-care are for my mental health. You will never grow if you don’t give yourself grace and allow yourself to be vulnerable.

The Importance of Giving Yourself Grace

Give yourself a break because your well-being is more important than pleasing others. I’ve learned that life isn’t about being the best; it’s about treating yourself the best. Give that same energy, care, and time to yourself that you give to others.

Embrace Self-Care: Why It’s Essential for Mental Health

Life can be stressful, but you don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. There is good in the world, and by taking care of yourself, you’ll be in a better place to see it.

This blog post was written by a local teen as part of our new series featuring Teen Voices in the El Segundo and South Bay area of Los Angeles. Prioritize your mental health, and know that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. The best thing you can do for yourself is to give yourself a break and practice self-love.

Contact Soul 2 Soul Healing Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation!

Soul 2 Soul Healing Office
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Self-Care Practices for Teens to Support Their Mental Health

Dear community,

I hope you’ve been doing well since I’ve last written. I’ve been thinking a lot about how I prioritize self-care to boost my mental health, especially considering how important it is to me in my own life. I wanted to share some self-care practices for teens that have helped me along the way in hopes they might resonate with you too.

Prioritize Self-Care

First and foremost, I’ve learned to prioritize self-care. It’s not just about indulgence; it’s about recognizing when I need a break and giving myself permission to take it. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a hike, or simply enjoying a cup of tea in peace, these little moments of self-care recharge me and keep me grounded. My favorite practice is listening to music and my favorite artists.

Connect with Family & Friends

Staying connected has also been a big part of my mental health journey. I’ve found that reaching out to friends and loved ones, even when I don’t feel like it, can make a world of difference. Just knowing that there are people who care about me, and are there to listen, can be incredibly comforting. 

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness has become a daily self-care practice for me. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few moments to appreciate the present moment, mindfulness helps me stay centered and calm, even in the midst of chaos.

Mind Your Body

Taking care of my body is another essential aspect of my mental health routine. Eating well, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise not only make me feel good physically but also have a huge impact on my mood and overall well-being.

Stick to Your Values

Setting boundaries has been a game-changer for me. Learning to say no to things that drain my energy or don’t align with my values has allowed me to prioritize my own needs and focus on what truly matters to me. 

Find What Works For You

I hope these insights into self-care practices for teens based on my own journey with mental health and wellness resonate with you in some way. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and being gentle with yourself along the way. 

If you ever need someone to talk to or support in any way, reach out to the National Mental Health Hotline, offering free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources at (866)-903-378. 

Need help prioritizing self-care to boost your mental health? Enter your information below to submit your request for a free consultation. 

Contact Soul 2 Soul Healing Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation!

Soul 2 Soul Healing Office
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Local Teen Opens Up About Mental Health Journey

Dear fellow wave riders,

Sometimes, I feel as though life is just like the sea. For the longest time, anxiety was the relentless wave that threatened to capsize my ship. The pressure, self-doubt, and sleepless nights felt like navigating through a never-ending storm. I questioned my worth and was scared to embark on my mental health journey by starting something like therapy, which I had never done before.

But amidst the chaos, I discovered resilience within myself. It wasn’t an overnight revelation but a gradual understanding that my mental health deserved attention and care. I began seeking help, opening up to friends and family, and, most importantly, to professionals who offered mental health counseling for teens and guided me through the storm.

Therapy became my anchor, providing a safe harbor where I could explore the depths of my thoughts and emotions. It wasn’t about erasing the waves but learning to ride them. Understanding that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength that connects us. Self-care became my life jacket, reminding me to prioritize my well-being. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a book, a walk in nature, or simply taking a break, these small acts became lifeboats in the storm. I learned that preserving my mental health required intentional efforts and self-compassion. 

Support from loved ones transformed into a lighthouse, guiding me through the darkest nights. Sharing my struggles with mental health became a bridge that connected me to others who had faced similar challenges. In those connections, I found solace, understanding, and a community that stood as a collective testament to the power of empathy. 

As I write this letter, I want to emphasize that the journey is ongoing. Mental health is a continuous exploration, a commitment to self-discovery and growth. There are still days when the waves are high, but now I face them with a newfound resilience. It becomes easier to practice skills and navigate your daily life better.

To anyone reading this who may be struggling along their own mental health journey, I want to say that you are not alone. Reach out, seek help, and embrace the journey. There is strength in vulnerability, and a community is ready to support you. Probably one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that there is no reason to feel ashamed to ask for help; we are all human.

Yours Truly, 

CJ

El Segundo high school student

Contact Soul 2 Soul Healing Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation!

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