When we’re on a plane we are told that if there is an emergency we must put on our own oxygen mask FIRST before attempting to help others… Putting your mask on first is a basic tenet of self-care. You won’t be any help to others if you are struggling yourself.

If you are facing challenges right now, the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) is here to help. If you or a loved one are experiencing challenges (e.g., addiction, mental health, housing, etc.) please click here to see what resources are available: https://namigo.org/resources/

The CDC also has some advice about how to cope with stress during these difficult times… Some of these tips (like eating well, sleeping well and getting some exercise) are things you’ve been told your entire life… but are you really doing everything you can to take care of your basic self-care? It is perhaps more important now than ever. https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/suicide/copingwith-stresstips.html

In addition, the health (and mental health) benefits of meditation are immeasurable. Meditating is easy, and free! To get started, click here:  https://www.mindful.org/how-to-meditate/

Don’t forget to always put your own mask on first!