You think about all the negative things that can or have gone wrong. Pay attention to your thoughts to catch when they turn negative and try to think of the positives instead. If something is going wrong but there is nothing you can do about it, try to let it go. Keep your focus on what is within your control.

You take on too much and get overwhelmed. Look at your to-do list and start small; pick a few smaller items to get you started and be sure to give your self credit for all you accomplish. Larger projects can be broken into smaller tasks and be sure to give yourself breaks, even for just a few minutes. Asking for help and delegating tasks is a strength, not a weakness.

You are too busy or tired for physical activity. Physical activity can reduce stress. Try fitting a couple short 10-minute walks into your schedule, which may help clear your head. Find activities that you enjoy, schedule them for a specific time, and treat them as unbreakable appointments. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

You have trouble focusing on the present. Put down or limit your electronic devices, especially when you have the opportunity to join a conversation, enjoy a meal, or simply relax. Work on being mindful; notice and appreciate the little things. When you notice your mind wandering, try taking deep breaths and returning to the present moment.

You expect perfection. Remind yourself that real life has imperfections. Always striving to be perfect may foster unrealistic expectations of yourself and others. Treat your mistakes as learning opportunities and try to find humor in not-so-perfect situations.

Be sure to reach out for help if you notice symptoms of mental illness in yourself or someone you care about. Adults may show signs such as trouble concentrating, fatigue, avoiding people or activities you enjoy, sleep issues, drug or alcohol use, anger, or violence. Depending on their age, children and teens may show different symptoms than adults; refer to our Nurturing the Mental Health of Children, Teens, and Young Adults article for information and resources specific to these age groups.  Treatment, such as medication and talk therapy, can help be helpful and a doctor or a mental health professional can recommend what may work best based on your specific needs. Early intervention may lead to better outcomes for those dealing with mental illness.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The EAP offers free, confidential, 24/7 support for all employees and their household members. This benefit includes six in-person or virtual sessions with a counselor, per support need. You also receive unlimited phone consultations with EAP experts about family, financial and legal matters, along with a variety of online resources. Visit our EAP page to learn more.