BEING IN THE RIGHT HEADSPACE

May is celebrated as Mental Health Month across America, and what better time to consider taking your own internal assessment and look at how you’re feeling about your own mental health. You might also want to take a look at factors in your environment and living spaces that may be affecting your mental health.

One of the main organizations helping us celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in Southern California is Mental Health America (MHA). MHA’s 2023 awareness campaign focuses on the way our physical surroundings – including our neighborhoods and built environments –impact both our individual and community mental health.

They're helping each of us answer tough questions like:

• What is a mentally healthy and safe space?

• How can I change my surroundings to support my mental health?

• What if I can’t control or change something unhealthy about my surroundings?

Don’t underestimate the importance of these important factors. For example, a recent study found that those who had access to natural spaces during the COVID-19 lockdowns had lower levels of stress and those that could view nature from home had reduced psychological distress (Ribeiro et al, 2021).

If a space is not yours to make big changes to, even doing simple things can help. If you don’t have a view of nature outside your window, try bringing nature inside. A potted plant, a tiny herb garden, or fresh flowers can give you a connection to the outdoors. Even a photo of nature can make a positive difference.

Aromatherapy can be used to make a happier space. Spritzing rose water or lavender or taking a whiff of your favorite essential oil can help. If you are sensitive to smells, create a scent-free environment. Even in a workspace, your coworkers will do their best to help – if you ask.

Still others find working with music in the background can improve