Life Out of Whack? H.A.L.T.

Life Out of Whack? H.A.L.T.
Today is February 9, 2011 and it is mental health awareness day in Canada. A reminder to all, 20% of the total population suffers from a “mental health” issue in their life. Be aware of it, and if you are in that 20%, have the courage to seek help. There are no negatives attached to issues IF you deal with them!
"This is my depressed stance. When you're depressed, it makes a lot of difference how you stand. The worst thing you can do is straighten up and hold your head high because then you'll start to feel better. If you're going to get any joy out of being depressed, you've got to stand like this."
~ Charlie Brown
Been feeling a little out of balance lately, just not yourself and a little “down”?
A simple check list. If you can relate, check your H.A.L.T. behaviours.
H…ungry. Watch your eating. Skipping meals throws the body chemistry out of whack, can make us cranky and depressed. Clinicians tell us eating small quantities 6 times a day is ideal.
A…ngry. None of us can afford to carry anger with us. Internalizes it causes all kinds of negative things including stress and harmed relationship. Learning to deal in a healthy way with anger is a learned skill. Step 1, don’t stuff it inside of you; find a safe place to share.
L…onley. It is said “no man/woman is an island”, and it is all true! We’re human, we require contact with other humans. If you find your self isolating, or really wanting to isolate at all, you have a warning sign; reach out and get help.
T…red. How often do you let yourself get too tired and pay the price? It might just manifest itself in feeling sorry for ourselves. We ALL require 6-8 hours of sleep daily and there is nothing wrong with “power naps”; in fact quite the opposite. If you can’t sleep properly, go get the help you need starting with your MD.
To many, these things are common sense. But how are you in practise? Want some help with your “life balance", email me at info@coached-to-success.com or khbray@hopeserenity.ca and by return email I’ll send you a “daily” check list for balanced living. You will not be “pitched” or put on an email list, this I promise. The list combats H.A.L.T. and for me, balanced living did not come easy.
And remember, mental illness affects 20% of the population. Learn and practise good mental hygiene and don’t be embarrassed!