How to Track Your Mental Health & Set Goals

If you’re looking to improve your mental health and overall well-being, one of the best things you can do is track how you’re feeling. Not only does this allow you to identify any issues you might be experiencing and set goals for how to resolve them, but it can also help you analyze how you’re progressing toward those goals. 

Here are some tips for how to track your mental health:

• Use the tracking method that will work best for you. For example, some people enjoy the ritual of writing in a paper journal, while others prefer the convenience offered by a digital app.
• Schedule a time to track how you’re feeling each day. For example, you could do it after dinner or before bedtime. If you have trouble remembering to do it, you may want to set a reminder alarm.
• Find a comfortable space that’s free of distractions. Maybe even light a candle and snuggle up with your favorite blanket.
• If you find it difficult to explain how you’re feeling overall, try focusing on specific indicators like appetite, energy, mood, sleep, and stress. You can even use just one word to describe that day (the words don't always have to be beautiful or insightful.)
• Set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) goals. For example, rather than simply saying that you want to feel less anxious, say that you’ll spend 10 minutes meditating each morning for the next month.
• Focus on one goal at a time. Otherwise, you may end up feeling overwhelmed, which could impede your progress. Remember growth is NOT linear and you can take your time.

Take Control of Your Mental Health

Once you’ve started tracking your mental health, you may find that you need a professional to help you achieve your goals. You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at our practice. Our therapists are highly experienced and will supply you with the individualized, patient-focused care that we’ve come to be known for. Contact us today to request an appointment.