I believe all of us are put through situations in life to test us, challenge us, hurt us and help us understand. These situations are called “Life Lessons” what we choose to do with these life lessons is the true turning point in our life, from living them to learning from them and teaching about them. Here I describe a mental health toolbox and some of the coping skills for mental health issues to improve your mental health and mood as I don’t need to tell you why mental health matters.
My journey to this point has been less than ideal at times, I have experienced a stillbirth, an extremely unhealthy marriage, and many trials with my own mental health. I have always wanted to help people; this brings me joy and fulfillment. There has never been a question about where I wanted to take myself and how important it was to reach as many folks as I could to help them learn about their recovery and understand some resources along the way.
March 27th, 2020, a moment many of us will never forget, this day the world stopped. I can honestly tell you I had a serious meltdown, a co-worker and I knew we needed to do something, and that’s when I began reaching out to people on a social media platform through daily videos encouraging coping skills and filling up your toolbox. My mission was to encourage others to fill up their “Toolbox” with as many coping skills as they could to get them through all situations. You can check out some of these resources and videos on our Facebook page, Vikingland Community Support Program, or YouTube: Mental Health Matters – Fill up your toolbox.
Mental Health was and continues to be challenged to the max. We knew we had to keep people well at home, the hospitals were full and there were no other forms of support out there. The mental health pandemic will never be over, however, with the correct tools and supports I believe individuals will grow, embrace recovery, and learn that anything is possible if they put their mind to it.
So, what is a coping skill toolbox? My vision of a mental health toolbox is similar to the toolbox you would see in a garage, full of tools you may need to complete certain repairs. You would never use the same tool to fix your house as you would your car, so why would you try to use the same 1 tool to improve your mental health? You can scan the internet for multiple different resources, they are everywhere; worksheets, crafts, challenges, tips, schedules, you name it’s out there. Some of my favorite resources are www.NAMI.org and https://www.samhsa.gov/or look on your state Department of Human Services website for more resources. The downside is this can be overwhelming how exactly do you implement these things into your life?
First, you must decide what kind of information you are wanting to collect, we cannot combat all symptoms at one time, this can lead to burning out, and ultimately, we lose focus. Set aside time to evaluate your mental health, are you in need of tools for your anxiety? Are you in need of tools that help you organize your time and life? Do you need to reduce your depression so that you can have more energy and motivation? Once you have chosen a direction, you must then establish where you will keep this information. I encourage everyone to purchase a folder, recipe box, toolbox, or any other low-priced item that is creative and special for you to store your information and turn to when in need. I am a hands-on person; I learn best by reading and doing. These are the types of worksheets I look for. Understanding your learning style is important when searching for information so you choose materials that suit your needs best. Start printing items off, highlight specific information, and layout the tools you feel would work best as Mental Health Matters!
Next, find yourself a calendar and start scheduling time throughout the day and week that is designed to be your “ME” time. This will only be used to practice your tools, get out your toolbox fill it up and/or complete the worksheets you found. This should be a quiet time where you can reflect on how you are feeling and what symptoms have been bothering you most. It really is that easy. The key is self-discipline and drive. You must decide if recovery and symptom management are what you want. So many of us can talk the talk, but the art of action is where the work really begins, and change is seen.
A wise man once told me “You got this Red.” We all have so much desire and passion deep inside of us that is unused and wasted. Our mental health can be a black cloud over our goals and dreams. But it does not have to be, we have the potential to make our lives as amazing as we set our minds to. I encourage everyone to understand resources in their communities, recognize their support system and find those that cheer you on. We need cheerleaders in our corner, and YOU need to be the best cheerleader on your team, first and foremost. Those challenges and trials we have experienced should not continue to define our life or control it. Now is the time to get your toolbox together, start making changes and see your dreams up ahead. When we start to realize that we have the power, there is no holding us back.
Today, tomorrow and for the rest of your future, prepare your toolbox! It is never too late to make changes today. If you aren’t learning you are not living.
Start your toolbox today! Mental Health Matters!!!
Rebecca Schmitz
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