July is Self Care Month
July 24th is International Self Care Day
Self-care is the intentional practice of making time for activities that support your overall well-being, including your physical and mental health. These activities can help reduce stress, lower the risk of illness, and boost your energy. Self care can be practiced 24-7; hence the selection of July 24th being self care day. Self-care looks different for everyone; it is important to pay attention to your needs and choose activities that bring you joy and help you recharge. Finding what works best often takes time and experimentation.
One of the most challenging aspects of self care is the intentional act of making recovery a priority.
Self care month is the opportunity to:
- Increase awareness about self-care and self-care interventions
- Acknowledge the benefits that intentional self care actions and interventions bring to people’s lives
- Add value to the time we devote to self care, emphasize the importance of commitments and action to expand all health systems to include self-care interventions
Why is Engaging in a Self Care Routine Important?
- Builds resilience
- Supports healthier relationships
- Improves sleep and strengthens immune function
- Boosts self-esteem and productivity
- Helps lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some cancers
- Reduces the likelihood of depression and anxiety
- Reduces the risk of burnout
Difference Between Self-Care Actions and Self-Care Interventions
Self-Care Actions
Self-care actions are the everyday choices and habits that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They are often the first step in caring for yourself and can include simple practices such as resting, eating well, moving your body, or taking time to recharge.
Self-Care Interventions
Self-care interventions are evidence-based tools that help people manage their health more effectively. These can include diagnostic tests, medical devices, medications, and digital resources that support prevention, monitoring, and treatment.
Together, self-care actions and self-care interventions empower people to take a more active role in their health. While daily habits help maintain overall well-being, evidence-based tools provide additional support for preventing illness, maintaining health, and managing specific conditions.
Why Self-Care Matters in the Workplace
Current research shows that many people are facing heavy workloads, burnout, and exhaustion in the workplace. Self Care Month is a timely reminder to pause, reflect on our habits, practice mindfulness, and build sustainable routines that support both personal well-being and professional growth.
| COMMON BARRIERS | CONSIDER | STRATEGIES |
|
Finding Time |
How you can achieve a quick win —even a few minutes at a time | 1. Mindfulness – aware of the present moment
2. Communicate your boundaries
3. Schedule a short breaks 1-2 times a day
4. Take movement breaks
5. Connect with nature |
|
Guilt for Breaks |
Cannot give back to others if you are not taking care of your own needs | |
| Low Motivation and Energy | Start small with something you enjoy | |
| Social Isolation/
Lack of Support |
Reaching out to a mental health professional |
How to Build a Self Care Routine
- Identify activities you enjoy and find calming or restorative.
- Choose at least one activity to include in your daily routine.
- Pay attention to changes in your mood, energy, and overall health.
- Adjust your routine based on your current needs.
- Seek support or advice if you are struggling.
By – Cynthia Zakariasen, Support Approach Team
