If you have a mental health condition or need help managing everyday stress, you may have heard that practicing mindfulness can help. However, you might not know the details about what it means to be mindful or what specific benefits it can bring. To help you on your journey to calmer living, here’s what you should know about mindfulness. 

A Guide to Mindfulness

What Is Mindfulness?

To be mindful, you have to accept the present moment without judgment. Instead of letting yourself become lost in a jumble of negative thoughts, respond to situations and feelings with openness and acceptance. For example, if your boss tells you they want to talk, you might experience a flood of anxious thoughts about possible negative outcomes and even worry you’ll be fired. In this instance, practice mindfulness by taking a deep breath and observing your surroundings, body, thoughts, and feelings.

Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Notice the specific anxious thoughts you’re experiencing and the unpleasant sensations those thoughts may be causing, such as sweaty palms or a racing heart. Then, instead of trying to fight those thoughts and sensations, accept them. Realize that although feeling anxious is unpleasant, it’s a normal response to stress that will eventually pass. 

Mindfulness can be particularly helpful when used in conjunction with other techniques learned in therapy. For instance, in the above example, as you accept your unpleasant thoughts and feelings, you could gently remind yourself that there are other topics your boss might want to speak with you about besides your termination. You could also remind yourself that even if you are fired, you’ll find ways to cope, and the world will not end. A licensed therapist can help you determine the specific techniques that will work best for you. 

How Can It Help You?

Research shows that mindfulness can have a positive effect on one’s mental health. For example, it can lower stress, reduce mild to moderate depression and anxiety, as well as prevent relapses of depression. However, mindfulness may not work for everyone. For instance, if you’re experiencing severe depression, psychosis, or unprocessed trauma, talk to a mental health professional about other treatments before you begin practicing mindfulness; otherwise, the mindful techniques may not be effective. 

While mindfulness can be a wonderful tool for learning to live with unpleasant thoughts and feelings, those who experience mental health conditions should also seek professional help. Established in 1939, the Lincoln Psychiatric Group in Lincoln, NE, helps people living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions find the treatment plan that’s right for them. Their compassionate services include counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Visit them online for a full list of services, and call (402) 476-7557 to schedule an appointment today.