We live in a society that touts busyness and sleep deprivation as a badge of honor. There’s pressure to have a “normal” life and family, even though there’s no such thing as “normal.”

Everyone has their own unique journey. It’s easy to get so caught up in cultural pressures that we compromise our health and well-being and add stress or anxiety to our lives.

The problem is inherent in our culture.

A 2018 study by the American Psychiatric Association found that 51% of Americans are anxious. This study also saw a 5% increase in anxiety from 2017 to 2018 and found that we’re most anxious about five major things: health, safety, finances, politics, and relationships. But this doesn’t have to be the story of your life. You can start to reduce anxiety and pursue wellness by taking the time to reflect on your mental health.

Since mental health is such a vital aspect of our overall well-being, it requires intentionality.

It’s not a sign of weakness to admit that you need help. You should be able to acknowledge if you’re anxious or having a hard time sleeping and finding energy. In fact, admitting it is the first step. It can be easy to overlook your mental health as long as you’re still able to perform daily tasks, but imagine how different you would feel if you weren’t maxed out all the time and you were able to enjoy the beauty life has to offer.

At Novara, we believe the path to improving your mental wellness has three essential components: your own commitment to your health, therapy, and medication (if necessary). The first pivotal component of mental wellness is you. It’s about investing in yourself and committing to make changes in your life. Secondly, we understand the stigma around therapy, but it’s nothing to be ashamed of; there’s freedom in working with a professional who can help you find comfort. And, finally, we will work with you to discover if medication is the right path for you. It is not recommended for all patients. Together, these elements are foundational to overcoming challenges and moving forward on your mental health journey.

As you’re making a commitment to mental wellness, one area to focus on is your sleep. Good sleep is foundational to excellent health. Start with simple changes like setting your phone out of reach and allowing your mind to rest before you try to sleep. If you also create a relaxing nightly routine, you’ll be able to wind down at night and set yourself up for success for the next day. Giving yourself space to rest will not only transform your nights, but will also bring clarity and energy to your days.

Another aspect of mental wellness is truly understanding what revitalizes you and what restores your soul. It’s as simple as taking time to evaluate what works for you. We walk patients through a series of questions to help them find clarity. Are you introverted or extroverted? Do you have a hobby that you love and makes you feel alive? We can help you discover a path to rejuvenation that will bring more joy and restoration to your life.

Here at Novara, we know that by focusing on mental wellness, you can become a healthier version of yourself. Ultimately, we believe if you’re willing to invest time and energy into your mental health and ask for help when you need it, you will be able to face whatever tomorrow may bring.