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Ever feel like you're drowning in your own mind, desperately trying to keep your head above water as the waves of emotions crash over you? You’re not alone. For those of us living with mental health conditions like DID, bipolar disorder, or manic depression, the struggle can feel overwhelming and isolating. But what if I told you that the lifeline you need might be simpler than you think? In this article, I’m sharing a personal journey of finding stability through the power of self-care—and how small, intentional changes can make a world of difference.
When living with conditions like Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), or other mental health conditions, prioritizing self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Self-care helps maintain mental, emotional, and physical well-being, allowing you to navigate daily challenges more effectively. In this article, I’ll explore practical self-care strategies that can be integrated into your daily routine and recommend some supportive premium products that can enhance your journey toward wellness.
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A Personal Journey: Finding Stability Through Self-Care
I remember a time not too long ago when everything in my life felt like it was unraveling. My days were a blur of overwhelming emotions, shifting between intense anxiety and a heavy, consuming sadness that made even the smallest tasks seem impossible. As someone living with mental health challenges my mind often felt like a stormy sea, with waves of emotions crashing unpredictably. Some days, it felt like I was barely keeping my head above water.
There was one particular day that stands out—one of those days where the weight of it all felt especially unbearable. I had woken up late, my body heavy with fatigue despite having slept for nearly 12 hours. The thought of getting out of bed felt like scaling a mountain. Every part of me wanted to stay cocooned in the blankets, shut off from the world. But the responsibilities of the day were waiting, indifferent to how I felt.
I forced myself out of bed, mechanically going through the motions of the morning. But something was different that day—my usual coping mechanisms weren’t working. The grounding techniques I had learned in therapy felt futile, and the familiar comforting routines offered no solace. By midday, I was in the throes of a panic attack, my thoughts racing, and my heart pounding so loudly that it drowned out everything else.
It was in that moment, amid the chaos in my mind, that I realized something needed to change. I needed to take better care of myself—not just on the surface, but in a deeper, more intentional way. I had heard about the importance of self-care countless times before, but it always seemed like a luxury I couldn’t afford, especially on days like this.
But as I sat there, struggling to breathe and feeling utterly defeated, I made a decision. I decided to prioritize my well-being, not as an afterthought, but as a necessity. That day, I reached for my journal and began writing—pouring out all the fear, anger, and sadness that had been swirling inside me. I allowed myself to express everything without judgment, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a slight sense of relief.
Over the following weeks, I started to make small but significant changes. I began incorporating daily mindfulness practices into my routine, starting with just five minutes of deep breathing in the morning. I found comfort in creative expression—painting, something I had loved as a child, became my sanctuary. I also started setting firmer boundaries, learning to say no when I felt overwhelmed, and scheduling regular times for rest and relaxation.
One of the most impactful changes was embracing physical activity, even when it felt impossible. I invested in a treadmill and made a commitment to walk for just 10 minutes a day. At first, it felt like a chore, but over time, those 10 minutes became my time—time to clear my head, listen to music that uplifted me, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
I also began to use grounding techniques more intentionally. On particularly difficult days, I would focus on the simple act of holding a warm cup of tea, feeling the heat against my palms, and breathing in the soothing aroma. It was a small thing, but it brought me back to the present, anchoring me in the moment when my mind threatened to spiral.
It wasn’t an overnight transformation. There were still days when the storm felt too strong to weather, but I started to notice a change. I felt more in control, more connected to myself. The waves of emotion didn’t stop coming, but I found I could navigate them better, with more resilience and grace.
Now, looking back, I see those small acts of self-care as lifelines—simple, yet profound practices that helped me regain my sense of stability. They became the foundation on which I rebuilt my life, one day at a time. And the most important lesson I learned? That self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline.
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed by your own storm, know that you’re not alone. Start small. Start with what you can manage today, whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing, a short walk, or simply giving yourself permission to rest. These small acts of self-care can make all the difference in your journey toward healing and stability.
Prioritizing Self-Care for Mental Health: Simple Strategies to Improve Well-Being
Prioritizing self-care means actively making time and space in your life to care for your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. For someone with DID (or any mental health condition), self-care is essential because it helps manage symptoms, reduce stress, and maintain overall health. Here’s what it can involve:
1. Listen to Your Body and Mind
The first step in self-care is tuning in to how you feel, both physically and mentally. When your body or mind signals that it needs rest or a break, it's crucial to respond with compassion. This might mean taking a nap, enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, or simply allowing yourself to be still.
What It Means: Pay attention to how you're feeling, both physically and emotionally. If you're tired, rest. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break. Self-care involves being attuned to your needs and responding to them kindly.
How to Practice: Regularly check in with yourself. Ask, "How am I feeling right now?" and "What do I need?" Then, act on those needs, whether it’s taking a nap, eating a healthy meal, or simply sitting quietly for a few minutes.
Recommended Product:
Breville Tea Maker BTM800XL – Perfect for brewing a calming cup of herbal tea. Available on Amazon.
2. Set Healthy Boundaries for Mental Health
Protecting your time and energy by setting boundaries is another key aspect of self-care. This means learning to say no when necessary and creating space in your life for activities that recharge you.
What It Means: Protect your time, energy, and emotional space by saying no to things that are too demanding or stressful. Boundaries help you manage interactions with others in a way that preserves your well-being.
How to Practice: Learn to say no when something feels overwhelming. Limit time spent in situations that drain you, and prioritize activities and people that make you feel supported and valued.
Recommended Product:
Clever Fox Planner – A planner that helps you schedule your time and set boundaries effectively. Available on Amazon.
3. Incorporate Regular Rest and Relaxation
Rest is a cornerstone of self-care. Make sure you're getting enough sleep and incorporating relaxation into your day. Whether it's through a power nap, a relaxing bath, or unwinding with a good book, taking time to rest can significantly impact your mental health.
What It Means: Rest and relaxation are crucial for recovery and maintaining mental health. This includes getting enough sleep, taking breaks throughout the day, and engaging in activities that help you unwind.
How to Practice: Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down and get quality sleep. Take short breaks during work or stressful periods to breathe deeply, stretch, or relax in a quiet space.
Recommended Products:
Real Relax 2024 Massage Chair, Full Body Zero Gravity SL-Track Shiatsu Massage Recliner Chair with Heat Body Scan Bluetooth Foot Roller APP Control – Unwind and relax with a luxurious massage at home. Available on Amazon.
HoMedics Shiatsu Deluxe Neck & Shoulder Massager – A more budget-friendly option for targeted relaxation. Available on Amazon.
4. Engage in Activities You Enjoy
Doing things you love brings joy and helps reduce stress. Whether it's painting, writing, gardening, or anything else that brings you peace, make time for these activities regularly.
What It Means: Doing things you love can bring joy and reduce stress. Whether it’s a hobby, a creative outlet, or simply spending time in nature, engaging in enjoyable activities is a form of self-care.
How to Practice: Schedule time each day or week to do something that makes you happy. It could be painting, reading, gardening, or any other activity that brings you peace and satisfaction. Really give this a try!!
Recommended Products:
Arteza Acrylic Paint Set – A high-quality paint set to unleash your creativity. Available on Amazon.
Book Nook Reading Lamp – Perfect for creating a cozy reading environment. Available on Amazon.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
Mindfulness and grounding exercises help you stay present and connected, which is especially important for managing symptoms of DID and other mental health conditions. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or focusing on your senses can be transformative.
What It Means: Mindfulness and grounding help you stay present and connected to the moment, which can reduce anxiety and dissociation. These practices are particularly helpful for managing the symptoms of DID.
How to Practice: Integrate mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, or grounding exercises (like focusing on your senses), into your daily routine.
Recommended Products:
Muse 2: The Brain Sensing Headband – A high-tech way to enhance your meditation practice. Available on Amazon.
Headspace Meditation Subscription – Access guided meditations that help with mindfulness, grounding and sleep. Available Here.
The Headspace Guide to Meditation and Mindfulness: How Mindfulness Can Change Your Life in Ten Minutes a Day - Available on Amazon.
6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Your physical health directly impacts your mental well-being. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all crucial components of self-care.
What It Means: Your physical health directly impacts your mental and emotional well-being. Eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all vital components of self-care.
How to Practice: Plan balanced meals, stay active with exercises you enjoy, and ensure you’re getting enough rest. Consider integrating gentle activities like yoga or walking, which benefit both body and mind.
Recommended Products:
NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill – Invest in a high-quality treadmill for your home to keep up with regular exercise. Available on Amazon.
Nutribullet Blender – A quick and easy way to make nutritious smoothies to fuel your day. Available on Amazon.
7. Seek Support When Needed
Sometimes, the best form of self-care is recognizing when you need help. Whether it’s talking to a friend, seeking therapy, or joining a support group, reaching out for support is a vital part of taking care of yourself.
What It Means: Self-care includes knowing when to ask for help, whether from friends, family, or mental health professionals. You don’t have to go through difficult times alone.
How to Practice: Reach out to trusted people in your life when you’re struggling. Regularly see a therapist or counselor who understands your needs and can provide professional support.
Recommended Products:
Online Therapy – Access professional counseling from the comfort of your home. Available Here.
8. Create a Routine
A daily routine provides structure and predictability, which is essential for managing mental health conditions. It helps create a sense of stability and control, reducing the chaos that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
What It Means: A routine can provide structure and predictability, which is especially helpful in managing mental health conditions. It helps create a sense of stability and control.
How to Practice: Develop a daily schedule that includes time for work, rest, relaxation, and self-care activities. Having a routine can reduce the feeling of chaos and help you manage your day more effectively.
Recommended Products:
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light – A wake-up light that helps you maintain a consistent sleep schedule, an important part of any routine. Available on Amazon.
TimeCube Timer – A simple tool to help you manage your time effectively throughout the day. Available on Amazon.
9. Be Kind to Yourself
Self-compassion is key to effective self-care. It's okay to have bad days, and it's important to treat yourself with the same kindness and patience you would offer to a friend.
What It Means: Practice self-compassion. Understand that it’s okay to have bad days and that you don’t have to be perfect. Treat yourself with the same kindness and patience you would offer to a friend.
How to Practice: When you’re feeling down, remind yourself that it’s okay to struggle and that you’re doing your best. Engage in positive self-talk and avoid being overly critical of yourself.
Recommended Products:
The Self-Compassion Workbook by Dr. Kristin Neff – A guide to developing a kind and compassionate relationship with yourself. Available on Amazon.
10. Monitor and Manage Triggers
Understanding your triggers and learning how to manage them is crucial for maintaining your mental health. Keeping a journal of situations that cause stress or dissociation can help you identify patterns and develop strategies for coping.
What It Means: Identify and be aware of triggers that may cause stress or exacerbate symptoms. Develop strategies to manage or avoid these triggers when possible.
How to Practice: Keep a journal of situations that cause stress or dissociation. Work with a therapist to develop coping strategies for dealing with these triggers.