As a Black woman, I acknowledge these and other issues have personally impacted my mental health. Like many other women across Louisiana and nationwide, I’ve noticed myself feeling a little more worried, anxious, and restless than usual. A 2020 Keiser Family Foundation poll found nearly half (45%) of adults in the U.S. reported their mental health is negatively impacted due to worry and stress over the virus. Concerns about everything from health & safety to job security and financial stability continually heighten fear and uncertainty about the future. Needless to say, I was looking forward to unwinding and enjoying my summer of relaxation, self-care, and celebration this month.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I understand the changes I’ve noticed in my mental health during this time are normal and expected, given the stress we are all experiencing as a result of this pandemic. Over the last few months, I’ve realized just how necessary self-care has become to my overall mental health and well-being. Self-care means taking the time to identify your individual needs and unapologetically giving yourself whatever is essential to feel physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy. When we ignore self-care, including time for rest, relaxation, and socially-distanced activities we enjoy, it can deplete our confidence and self-esteem and negatively affect our relationships with others as well. Being mindful of your personal self-care needs, especially during times of increased stress, fear, and anxiety, helps you practice showing love and care to yourself. This act of true self-love naturally overflows to others and eventually returns to you!

Try out a few of these self-care practices to help you feel more grounded, connected, and supported in your mental health and well-being throughout our unusual quarantine summer.

1. TAKE A BREAK FROM TECHNOLOGY.
   Challenge yourself to reduce the amount of news, social media, pop culture, and gaming content you consume daily.
2. CHANGE IT UP.
   Take up a fun new hobby or research a topic of interest that brings you joy.
3. SPEND TIME IN NATURE.
   Get outside. Breathe. Allow the elements of nature to calm, soothe, and re-energize your body.
4. MOVE YOUR BODY.
   Whether exercising, dancing, walking, or simply stretching, movement helps improve both physical and emotional health.
5. REST & MEDITATE.
   Intentionally create time and space to slow down, do nothing, self-reflect, and get in tune with what you need to physically, mentally, and emotionally.
6. TALK IT OUT.
   Don’t be afraid to reach out for a healthy, safe, and supportive space to share how you feel and release the anxiety before it gets overwhelming. If you don’t have a positive circle of family or friends to talk to, consider seeking an experienced mental health professional to support your needs.