Moving to a new place can be stressful. Juggling between a new job, the feelings of homesickness, a -sometimes difficult- integration to a new environment. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your mental health.
Plug off on weekends.
Avoid checking emails or logging onto your social media networks on weekends. Go somewhere or enjoy something you love doing, explore the city or indulge on your favorite things to do. Get organized at home or binge on your favorite shows. Whatever it is, get your mind off your emails and social network accounts to restart your and clear your mind.
Take up a sport or work out
Physical activity gets your heart going, keeps you healthy and takes care of your brain. This is because the happy hormones called endorphins are produced during physical movement and it helps keep your brain chemicals in balance. Studies show that working out or engaging in physical activities can help manage stress better.
Spend time outdoors
These days we can easily get cooped up indoors because of our sedentary lifestyles. Go to the park and connect with nature. Surrounding yourself with greenery has positive effects for your mental health. Take a walk, go on picnic or go to the beach. You can also choose to eat al fresco if weather permits and get yourself some Vitamin D through sunshine.
Get some salty air and sand between your toes (or just be beside a body of water!)
It has been said that almost anything can be cured with salt. Go to the beach and bask in the sun, let children play with water and sand, go for a swim and enjoy the weather. This will help you feel refreshed to take on another day or week at the office.
Go shopping and treat yourself once in a while
Shopping can be a great way to unwind. Hit the nearest malls or market and pick up some essentials. Indulge once in a while to a little bit of retail therapy and feel a lot lighter to take on a new week.
Eat good food with friends and family
Go on a food trip with friends or if you have family, take them too. Try the latest restaurant in the city or go to your favorite place to have delicious food. Indulging in culinary experiences can also do a great deal for your mental health.
Keep in constant communication with loved ones
Schedule a chat with your family and friends back home to unwind. Keeping in touch with people you miss back home can make you feel less homesick and stressed.
Talk about your feelings and acknowledge negative ones
Most expats feel like they can't talk about their mental health, especially when they are undergoing difficulties. Reach out to your friends, be vocal about your feelings and find a support group that you trust so you can deal with difficulties you are going through. Once you believe that it isn't taboo to talk about mental health, you will learn that self-care should be your priority.
Get professional help if need be
A lot of expats experience burn out from work or home life, sometimes even both. Know that it is okay to reach out to professionals when you feel that you have exhausted all your efforts or if you catch yourself no longer enjoying the things that you used to.
Bounce back!
No matter how low you fall down sometimes, remember to get back up. Life is an amazing journey and anything can be conquered if you put your heart and mind into it.
