Mental health tool kit

Hello readers,

I'm writing from home today, not from the Wantirna Knox area where I usually work. Since it's Mental Health Month throughout October, I wanted to share something meaningful, how to create your own Mental Health First Aid Kit.

A Mental Health First Aid Kit is a collection of tools, strategies, and resources that you can turn to when you're feeling emotionally or mentally overwhelmed. It’s like having a personal support system ready to go when things get tough.

One helpful item is a journal. You can use it to write down your thoughts, track your mood, or simply vent when you're feeling off. I find it really grounding. Comfort items also make a big difference things like a soft blanket, a stress ball, a scented candle, calming tea, or even an aromatherapy spray. I personally use aromatherapy spray a lot and absolutely love it. If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend giving it a go.

Music is another powerful tool. Whether it's something relaxing and calming or something that lifts your spirits, having a playlist ready can help shift your mood. You might also want to write a crisis plan for those moments when you feel like you're not coping and nothing seems to help. This plan could include reaching out to a trusted family member, a friend, a psychologist, or even calling Lifeline. Their number is 13 11 14 keep it somewhere easy to find.

Coping strategies are a key part of your kit. Breathing exercises can be incredibly effective. One I love is breathing in for four seconds and out for four seconds. Even just taking a few deep breaths can help calm your nervous system. Grounding techniques are also useful like taking off your shoes and feeling the ground beneath you, or using the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory method to reconnect with the present moment.

Movement helps too. Stretching, yoga, walking, or dancing can get you out of your head and back into your body. Positive self-talk is another great tool. Affirmations can be powerful reminders of your strength and worth. Louise Hay is an author who has written extensively on affirmations, and you can even find her work on TikTok if you're curious.

Finally, consider adding a few personal touches to your kit  like photos of loved ones or favorite memories. These can be comforting reminders of joy and connection when you're feeling low.

Thanks for reading my blog. I hope this inspires you to create your own Mental Health First Aid Kit, filled with things that bring you comfort, strength, and peace.

Thanks for reading my blog.