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| September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and throughout the month, we’re sharing simple ideas for taking care of your mental health and getting through the tough days. |
| One of the things that’s been helpful for Ethel Goetz, Senior Admin at Appliance Park, is something pretty simple: journaling. “One thing I do that I find is really helping is writing down my activities, thoughts and feelings in a journal at the end of the day. It helps me reflect on the day and think about what I could have done to make it better. It just took me a while to make it a habit.” Journaling can be a simple way to take care of your mental health Sometimes, getting your thoughts out of your head and onto paper can make a big difference. Taking just a few minutes to write about what you’re thinking or feeling can help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and work through difficult emotions. Journaling can also help you clear your mind, recognize patterns in your thoughts, and better understand what might be triggering certain feelings. And there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Your journal is your space. You can write a few sentences, make a list, or simply put down whatever comes to mind. The goal is to slow down, check in with yourself, and give yourself a little space to reflect. Simple ways to get started Just write: Don’t worry about spelling, grammar, or making it sound good. Write whatever comes to mind. Keep it simple: Start with just five to 10 minutes at the end of your day. Try a prompt: If you’re not sure what to write, start with a question about something that made you smile, stressed you out, or stood out to you that day. Use what works for you: Grab a notebook, use your phone, or journal on your computer. Choose whatever feels easiest and most private. Not sure what to write about? Try one of these questions: What happened today, and how did it make me feel? Have I experienced something like this before? What was different this time? What can I learn from this experience? How do I feel about where I am in my life right now? What am I grateful for today? What was the best thing that happened today? What was the hardest? Remember, you don’t have to write a lot. You just have to start. A few quiet minutes at the end of the day can give you a chance to check in with yourself, process what you’re feeling, and reflect on what you need. And, as Ethel found, it may take a little time before journaling becomes a habit. Give yourself some grace and find a routine that works for you. Life Happens: Free, Confidential Support for You GE Appliances’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential support for employees and their families. From managing depression and addiction to caring for elderly family members, these resources are here to help with personal challenges and mental health needs. |
Latricia Taylor
