Mental wellness is about how well we handle situations as they arise. When we’re running on empty, even something as small as a toddler melting down over the wrong colour cup can feel completely overwhelming. Prioritizing our mental well-being helps us build the resilience needed to navigate those moments – and much more.

A Simple Proactive Strategy: A Calming Routine

One simple but powerful strategy for mental wellness is establishing a 20-30 minute calming routine at a time of day that makes sense for you. This might be:

• A quiet tea or coffee break

• A morning routine before the kids wake up or you start work

• A wind-down routine before bed

For me, it’s the time right before I go to sleep. After the kids are down for the night, I read a verse or passage from my Bible (depending on my energy), then practice the Daily Examen (remember that from our spiritual wellness week?). I finish by listening to a biblical meditation. Some nights, I make it through the whole thing, while others, I’m asleep before it ends.

A Simple Reactive Strategy: Accepting Help

Of course, routines aren’t always enough – especially in times of crisis, when everything feels chaotic and out of control. Our instinct is often to grasp for control wherever we can, but sometimes that only adds to our mental overwhelm. When crisis hits, people often offer to help – bringing meals, running errands, or simply lending a listening ear. But too often, we brush off these offers. We tell ourselves:

• I chose this (the job, having kids, etc.), so I need to handle it.

• I don’t want to be a burden.

• What will people think if I admit I’m struggling?

• That’s not where I need help, but I don’t know how to ask for the help I need.

Here’s the truth: Most people aren’t judging you – they genuinely want to help. In fact, many are unsure how to step in and don’t want to overstep, so they wait for you to ask. Every time I’ve reached out for help - whether it was prayer or practical support - I have been met with relief and gratitude that someone finally let them in.

Using these strategies (and others in My Recharge Guide), we can drastically improve our mental well-being. Small changes add up, and saying “yes” to support can be the difference between drowning and staying afloat.

What’s one way you can support your mental wellness this week? Drop it in the comments – I’d love to hear what works for you!