I love that we’re all talking about mental health more often. We still have a long way to go, but we’re getting there. Slow progress is still progress!
One aspect I wish we were talking about more is how much the little things can matter when you consider someone’s overall mental health and well being. Sure, spilling your coffee all over yourself as you’re on your way to work isn’t going to send you into a deep spiral of depression in and of itself. But what if you’re already dealing with family issues, relationship struggles, work stress, and by the way you also have a massive headache that kept you up all night? Yeah, that spilled coffee is looking more and more like the last straw before you completely lose your shit.
Because we’re all dealing with so much all the time, most of which is out of our control, let’s spend some time focusing on what we can change with very little effort.
Here’s a list of things that, on the surface, don’t seem to be that significant. But imagine yourself having the worst day ever (or the third worst day ever in a row) and having to deal with one of these items. Yeah, I wouldn’t be happy either. Sometimes the little things are the big things.
Don’t litter. No one wants to hang out in garbage.
If you like someone’s shoes/sweater/pants/nail polish color/hat/etc., tell them!
If someone holds a door open for you, say thank you.
And on that note, look behind you to see if there’s someone you can hold the door open for.
Give people the benefit of the doubt, until proven otherwise.
Don’t yell. Unless you’re super excited about something!
If someone reaches out to you, especially someone you know, respond, even if it’s just to say that you no longer want to communicate.
Hug your people.
If you appreciate someone in your life, tell them.
Clean up after yourself when you use a public bathroom. I know, gross. But you’d be surprised how common this problem is (or, maybe not…).
If you bump into someone, apologize.
If you make a mistake, apologize.
Share what you need from others.
Say please and thank you. And you’re welcome!
When you ask how someone is doing, listen to the answer.
In fact, just listen in general.
If you see someone struggling, offer to help. Back off if they say no.
Take a break – whatever that looks like for you.
These are obviously just some ideas, so what did I miss? Let me know in the comments or find me on Instagram @rachelgersten. Let’s keep this conversation going!
Author: Rachel
Rachel is a licensed therapist and co-founder of Viva Wellness. She gets most of her inspiration for the blog while on the run, and if you ever need to find her, she’s probably in Central Park. If she’s not running, you’ll find her planning the next time she’s going to eat, exploring all things wellness in NYC, or raising her stress level by watching her sports teams.
