We are told that “Self-Management” is helpful in getting and staying emotionally well. But what does it mean? How do we know what to do and if we are doing it right? How much do we need to do, and how often? Whether you are a student or adult, did you know that there are things you can do on your own? Why not get ahead of the game. Self-Management means using a set of self-care tactics, skills or actions by which you direct your own activities with the goal of improving your emotional health.  

Self-Management is not only useful in the context of Mental Health but also in many other areas to reach a desired personal or professional goal. For example these skills can be used to improve diabetes, arthritis, but also to improve skills in the workplace such as leadership skills. The more you practice, the better you will be able to access these skills, and……. the bigger the benefits!

Here is a list of what it can include:

• healthier eating
• adopting an active lifestyle
• setting goals and problem solving
• making daily tasks easier
• managing distressful symptoms such as fear, anger and frustration
• improving self-confidence
• improving communication with family and friends
• improving communication with doctors or other health care providers;  for example you can discuss what is important for you, and what you expect out of your treatment
• educating yourself on emotional illnesses for example when we are clinically depressed or have anxiety that really affects our day to day life
• lowering distress by changing the way you think, feel and behave

With Self-Management, you can make positive changes, and take an active role that help improve your emotional wellbeing. Self-Management can be all you need, or could be part of a treatment plan recommended by your doctor. You can discuss this with him or her. 

In the next blog posting we will talk about setting goals, why it works, and how to do this.