Taking the best care of you

When we think of caring for ourselves, we typically think of our physical health only.  Yet caring for our mental health is essential for healthy living.

Whether feeling lonely, managing health or caregiving challenges or experiencing a loss, we are all facing our own unique set of stressors that affect our mental well-being. Most of us think of anxiety or depression when we think of the term mental health, but it is much more.

What does the term mental health mean, and should I be concerned with my own?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act, and helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.

Many factors contribute to this, including genetics, life experiences and a family history of mental health problems.

What can I do to care for my mental health?

Mental health is more than the absence of a mental health conditions — it is essential to your overall health and quality of life.

Self-care plays a vital role in maintaining your mental health, and there are many small actions you can take to have a positive effect.

• Practice healthy living: Pay attention to healthy eating, gentle exercise and good sleep habits.

• Increase relaxation: Limit stressors such as the news. Try slow breathing exercises or Tai Chi.

• Focus on the positive: Recognize that each day brings an opportunity for healthy choices.

• Activate your brain: Read a new book! Play a game! Do an art project with others!

• Stay connected: Join others in an activity, meet some new friends, join a group meeting.

Any of this sound interesting? You can find all of these opportunities for self care and more at Wayne Senior Center.

Serving the Main Line community since 1975, Wayne Senior Center is the place to be for active, independent older adults. The center offers a robust calendar of classes and programs focusing on health and wellness, technology, fitness, nutrition, arts and culture and more. For more information, visit www.wayneseniorcenter.org.

Who can I talk to if I am concerned about my own mental health?

Your doctor, clergy, family member, trusted friend or neighbor are all good people. Local senior centers like the Wayne Senior Center are also staffed with people qualified to help.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

About the author: Katherine Rosenblatt is the social worker at Wayne Senior Center. She has over 30 years of experience working in all areas of health care, including acute care, nursing home and hospice work and most recently owned her own geriatric care management practice, serving all areas of need for the local community. Rosenblatt is available at the senior center on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to provide support and assistance to members, their families and caregivers.

About Wayne Senior Center: Since 1975, the Wayne Senior Center has led the effort to provide a place for older adults to have active friendships on the Main Line. The mission of the Wayne Senior Center is to provide community, friendship and resources that enrich the lives of older adults. Wayne Senior Center is located at 108 Station Road, Wayne. For more information, visit www.wayneseniorcenter.org.

Photo Caption:

Wayne Senior Center member, Rita, enjoys a recent Tai Chi class held on Wednesdays at 11:00am at the Center.

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