We all know how hard it can be to keep up with self-care, especially when our schedules become so busy. Whether it’s college, work or something outside of our control, we get caught up in the little things and forget to take care of ourselves.
It is essential to remember how crucial mental health is and how it can affect our lives on the regular. This is why we have dedicated the entire month of May to awareness.
Mental Health Awareness Month “raises awareness about mental illnesses and the importance of mental wellness for all,” according to the National Alliance of Mental Health.
While Mental Health Awareness Month is wrapping up, it is important to check up on loved ones and yourself. You may not even realize what a loved one is going through, and a quick, “Are you OK?” can do so much.
Emily Pearce | Argonaut
A great way to check up on someone is by using perception checking and QPR — questioning, persuading and referring. These two strategies are meant for the other person to not get so defensive and to open up about what you want them to say.
These two methods can be used for times of crisis, checking up on others and conflict management.
The first strategy, perception checking, works by stating what you observe to the other person, telling them how it makes you feel and asking them to elaborate. This could be used in many different ways, but the most common usage of perception checking is through clarifying how someone is feeling. An example of this could be, “Hey, this month is Mental Health Awareness Month and I wanted to check up on you, are you doing alright?”
The second method, QPR, is used when you are worried about a person and want to refer them to helpful resources like counseling. You question them about how they are doing, persuade them into thinking about outside resources and refer them to the help they need.
More information about QPR can be located on their website QPR institute.
Just as much as looking out for others, you also need to look out for yourself. It is always OK to not feel your best, and Mental Health Awareness Month brings awareness to that. Always be kind to yourself, take time for you, don’t put too much on your plate, and do what makes you feel good. Life is short, and the best way to spend it is to look out for you and those in your life.
Emily Pearce can be reached at [email protected]