GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — As October comes to an end, so does Emotional Wellness Month. However, it's vital to keep stock of your emotional wellness all times of the year.
"We talk a lot about physical health," said Greg Mallis, psychologist with Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. "Our emotions require a similar amount of attention to keep them well managed."
This time of year, the days are getting shorter and darker. It's often a time many people feel more sadness or depression. Mallis said emotional health then really takes a toll and affects what we are able to do in a day.
"We know we're in good emotional health when we're able to deal with the emotional ups and downs that life will bring," said Mallis. "When there is sadness, when there is discomfort, when there is frustration and the positive side as well. And when we're not managing our emotional health, well, that sadness, that depression, that frustration starts to come out in really negative and unhelpful ways."
One thing he is seeing more often in his practice is people comparing themselves to what they see on social media. They will see people on holidays, laughing with family or looking great. That can lead to feeling life isn't as fulfilling as it is for other people.
"It's important to step back and and remind ourselves social media is not an accurate reflection of the world around us," said Mallis. "It is what people use to kind of curate an image for themselves. So, around the holidays, in the winter, focus on the things that bring you joy, focus on your family. It's not always going to be perfect. So, accept the imperfections. It's not always going to be the best. It's not always going to be that, but that's okay."
Mallis said ways to manage your emotional health begin with identifying and taking stock of how you're feeling throughout the day. Then, isolate any feelings you do not want. If you have any control over it, take action to make changes. Find people in your life who you feel comfortable sharing those emotions with. Lastly, therapy can be helpful for many people for many reasons.
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