May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a reminder of the important role that mental health plays in our overall health and well-being. Liesa Kaye MSW, LISW-S, therapist/supervisory counselor of Aultman Medical Group Behavioral Health and Counseling Center, shares how we can incorporate self-care habits into our daily routine.

There is nothing selfish about self-care. If we neglect our own needs to the point of exhaustion, we become less able to focus on the people we love. To truly take care of others, we need to take care of ourselves.

It takes practice to care for ourselves, and with enough practice, it will become a skill.

Here is a list of 10 things to consider in order to begin a self-care practice:

• Prioritize sleep: Getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night supports cognitive function and emotional regulation.

• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on nutrient-rich food to fuel your mind and body.

• Get regular physical activity: Exercise releases endorphins to improve mood and reduce stress.

• Practice mindfulness and stress-reduction strategies: Meditation, yoga and deep breathing help to calm the mind.

• Connect to others: Nurture strong relationships with family/friends.

• Have realistic goals/priorities: This boosts self-esteem and confidence.

• Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself, acknowledge your emotions and engage in joy.

• Seek professional help when needed: Do not hesitate to reach out to therapists, counselors and social workers.

• Limit substance use: Substance use may negatively impact mental health.

To avoid becoming overwhelmed, don’t try to develop these self-care habits all at once. Choose one that’s most appealing to you and work on it. Once you’ve made that practice a regular part of your life, focus on another one.

Remember, as Dr. Marsha Linehan noted, “The heart pumps blood to itself first before the rest of the body; if it did not do this it would die.” We must take care of ourselves in order to be there for others.