My Real, Authentic Approach To Self-Care For Mental Health
Self-Care Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
I’m gonna start by saying that self-care looks different for everyone. It isn’t all skin care, bubble baths and yoga… Which is what we often see and are told.
In reality, it is so much more than that.
Now, I’ll admit, for me, it’s partly skincare and bubble baths… 😊
Seriously, though, while those things help me feel more grounded, self-care is about way more than the “instagrammable” stuff. There are countless possibilities for what self-care can look like for your mental health.
Realistically, Self-Care Can Look Messy
In my first post, I talked about how expressing creativity helps me manage my depression. One day, I’ll share more of what that looks like – but right now I’m just too scared…
But that’s the thing about self-care: it’s not always glamorous. Sometimes it’s confronting the messy parts of ourselves and figuring out what actually works when your mental health gets too overwhelming.
There are a lot of things I do to combat my depression, anxiety and general overwhelm with life.
So, here’s where things get a little controversial… I like to “party”.
No, not that kind of party – don’t worry, I’m not going down a rabbit hole of drugs and wild benders.
But yeah, I love going out, meeting people, and listening to good music.
I’m way too shy to get out on the dance floor… yet. 😉
Do I have a drink while I’m out? Absolutely. But, I know my limits and when to stop.
And trust me, I’m not just saying that.
Alcohol Helps Manage My Social Anxiety
Here’s the thing though, two drinks in and I’m a functioning human who can actually hold a conversation (kind of).
…Still can’t carry one for sh** but, you know, progress. 😂
That said, there are nights when I don’t drink. I’ll go out to soak up the atmosphere, be around people and watch them have fun. Seeing others enjoy themselves lightens my mood, and that’s a form of self-care for me too.
And drunk people? Some of the nicest people out there! They don’t care how awkward I am; they’ll just tell me they love my hair or my makeup or my outfit. 🥰
Honestly, drunk compliments are top-tier. 🫶🏻
But going out nowadays doesn’t have to be a whole thing. You don’t need a club or a whole outfit. It can be casual, relaxed and just a people-watching experience…
Yes, that still counts as a form of self-care.
What About Gaming For Your Mental Health?
It’s something a lot of people do but have you ever considered it as a form of mental health management?
I know, I know… people used to blame video games for all kinds of nonsense. 🙄
But for me? Gaming is therapy.
It helps me manage my depression and anxiety; to express my anger and frustration.
Lately, I’ve been fixated on The Sims 4 – because why not build the dream house I know I’ll never live in? 😂
I get to express my creativity, but also, I guess, express some of my sadness.
When I feel overwhelmed by life – which is a lot lately – it lets me escape by diving into a world where I make the rules and have more control over things.
And weirdly, gaming has helped me accept the things I can’t control in real life. Like, even my Sims have sh**ty days…😂
It’s Not All Cosy Games…
If The Sims isn’t your thing – which I know is the case for a lot of people – there are plenty of other ways to use gaming as a form of self-care.
In my opinion, turn-based games – like Baldur’s Gate, another obsession of mine – are perfect for beginners to get into more action-packed gaming.
Not to mention, RPGs let you set the narrative. Maybe today, I’m saving the world as a badass druid who turns into an owlbear, or maybe I’m just playing the villain for a bit because life’s been that kind of day.
Whatever your mood, there’s a game out there that can help you release stress or just zone out for a while. Whether it’s cosy simulators, turn-based strategy games, or intense action-packed shoot ’em ups, gaming can be a fantastic way to escape the chaos of life for a bit.
Don’t get me wrong, some games will still make you rage-quite – no one’s immune to that. Dark Souls anyone? …
But overall, I find that gaming helps me express emotions I’d otherwise bottle up. Better to let it all out in a game than, well, anywhere else.
Self-Care Is What Works For You
So, yeah, my idea of self-care is broad. Yes, some days it’s bubble baths and masks, but others it can be gaming marathons or getting appropriately drunk in a good bar! 😊
The important thing is that it’s what works for me. And that’s the whole point of self-care – it’s about figuring out what helps you feel more like yourself again.
Truly and unapologetically.
So, what does self-care look like for your mental health? Whether it’s gaming, going out, or something else entirely, own it. No one’s path is the same, and that’s okay.