When someone you care about is struggling with their mental health it is natural to want to be there for them, but taking care of your needs can easily get pushed aside. You want to be supportive and strong for them, but in the process, your own needs can easily take a back seat. It’s important to remember that caring for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.

Supporting someone through mental health struggles requires strength and energy. Without moments to rest and recharge, you may start to feel emotionally drained, detached, or even hopeless, signs of what’s often called compassion burnout. That’s why regularly checking in with yourself and acknowledging your own limits is essential. Recognizing how you’re feeling allows you to care not just for others, but for yourself in a sustainable way.

The summer months can be a great time to start creating self-care habits that can help you reset your mind. These tools you create do not have to be time-consuming or complicated, small actions can have a strong impact on your mental and emotional health. Over time, integrating these into your daily routine can help strengthen your ability to show up for others while also protecting your own peace of mind.

Here are some quick and easy ways to refresh your mind and body:

• Stay connected with friends and supportive people: being social is crucial for your emotional health. It can be as simple as a quick call, text, or meeting for coffee. Leaning on your support network reminds you that you’re not alone.
• Make time for things that give you happiness and peace: this could be a hobby, something that relaxes you, or a creative outlet. Prioritizing happiness can help balance the stress that you could be experiencing.
• Take a few minutes of quiet time: this could be deep breathing, sitting in silence, or mediating. Moments of quiet can help calm your mind and help you regain focus.
• Take a few minutes to step outside and get fresh air: spending time outdoors can help increase your mood and give you a refreshing change of scenery.
• Take a walk: movement helps to reduce stress, making it easier to take on emotional challenges.
• Reading: getting lost in a book you enjoy can be a healthy way to relax your mind.

Being there for someone with mental health challenges doesn’t mean carrying the weight alone. Asking for help is a powerful step, and prioritizing your own care is just as important.

At Connections, we’re here for you 24/7 with walk-in mental health services. If you or a loved one is facing mental health struggles, remember you don’t have to navigate it alone. Learn more about our accessible walk-in services and find support when you need it most:

• Phoenix, Arizona: 1201 South 7th Ave, Unit 150, Phoenix, AZ - Location Details
• Tucson, Arizona: 2802 East District Street, Tucson, AZ - Location Details
• Kirkland, Washington: 11410 NE 122nd Way, Kirkland, WA - Location Details
• Harrisburg, Pennsylvania: 1100 S. Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA - Location Details

Not near a Connections center? Help is available. Explore National Resources available to help you and your loved ones no matter where you are.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help or you’re unsure of where to turn, call or text 988. The free, confidential national crisis helpline is available 24/7. To learn more visit 988helpline.org.

Sources:

Caregiver Burnout: What It Is, Symptoms & Prevention

The mental health benefits of nature: Spending time outdoors to refresh your mind - Mayo Clinic Press