🤍 Today’s Check-In 🤍

It's so true what the original post says – every single day feels unique. Some days I wake up feeling like I can conquer the world, and others, it feels like a monumental task just to get out of bed. That's why having a personal mental health check-in list has become such a game-changer for me, almost like a Dear Diary moment where I get to be completely honest with myself. It’s not about fixing everything instantly, but about acknowledging where I am. When I first started doing these check-ins, I often wondered, "How do I actually sit with my feelings?" It sounds simple, but it can be incredibly hard, especially when you're dealing with uncomfortable emotions. For me, sitting with my emotions means pausing, taking a deep breath, and letting the feeling just be there without judgment. I try not to immediately label it as 'good' or 'bad.' If I'm feeling anxious, I simply notice the racing heart or the butterflies in my stomach. If I'm sad, I allow the heaviness to exist. Sometimes, just observing it, like watching a cloud pass by, helps to diminish its intensity. It's a practice, not a perfect state. There have definitely been days where I've found myself feeling helpless. Those moments can be overwhelming, making you feel isolated and lost. During these times, my check-in usually points me towards a lower number on the list, indicating a need for extra care. When helplessness creeps in, I try a few things: Reach out: Even a quick text to a friend saying, "I'm having a tough day," can make a difference. Small, achievable tasks: Clean one dish, make my bed, walk around the block. Success, no matter how small, can build momentum. Comfort activities: For me, it's listening to a specific playlist, cuddling my pet, or watching a favorite comfort show. Journaling: Writing down exactly what I’m feeling helpless about helps externalize it, making it feel less consuming. This is where the Dear Diary aspect really shines. To make my mental health check-in more thorough, I've started incorporating some therapy check-in questions that therapists often use. These aren't just for therapy sessions; they're fantastic for personal reflection. Here are a few I use: What's one thing that brought me joy or peace today? What challenge did I face, and how did I respond? What emotion is most present for me right now, and what does it need? Is there anything I'm avoiding, and why? What's one small act of self-care I can do for myself in the next hour? The 20 numbered statements on my check-in list, often visualised with an Anxiety Diary vibe, really help me pinpoint specific areas. For instance, if I'm consistently hitting a number that indicates exhaustion, it’s a clear signal to prioritize rest. If it's frustration, I might need to look at my boundaries. This process has taught me that acknowledging 'how are you feeling today' isn't just a polite question; it's a vital self-compassion practice. Your feelings are valid, and taking the time to understand them is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. It really does make a difference when you commit to checking in daily.