Today, October 10th, is World Mental Health Day.  According to the World Health Organization, the objective of this day is to “raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilize efforts in support of mental health”. To that I give a big HELL YEAH.

I have written about my own mental illness story before. I write about it and talk about it because I want to be a part of breaking that stigma. And surprisingly by doing that I have met people who felt comfortable enough to come to me and talk about their own struggle. Talking about it works.

So today, on Mental Health Awareness Day, I’m not asking you to shout your own story from the rooftops. My ask of you is to put yourself first. Try to be easier on yourself. Be a little selfish. Do it for you.

Maybe take a little longer to reply to that text, return that phone call, or reply to that email.

If working out is your jam, plan some time for you to take care of your physical health whether it’s a run or a relaxing yoga stretch sesh.

Read a book instead of scrolling through social media.

Eat something really yummy.

Get out of your office and get some fresh air.

Tell someone you love how much you love them.

Write.

Create.

Take a nap.

Listen to your favorite song.

Watch a really funny video on YouTube.

Watch your favorite movie.

What I’m saying is – do at least one thing that makes your soul feel good. I am in no way saying doing any of these things will miraculously help cure your mental illness but I know if I deliberately take some time to do something for me it helps, even it it only helps 1%. We so often live our day to day hoping to fill the expectations of others – today do it for you.