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As we watch the number of COVID-19 cases rise, many of us are likely feeling our pandemic-related stresses heightened. It puts our mental health to the test daily.

During this time, we've seen how our healthy or unhealthy decisions impact not just ourselves but those we interact with most – our loved ones, friends and coworkers. It's important for us to take care of ourselves – when we do, we often help take care of others.

That includes our mental health.

Maintaining a healthy mindset affects many layers within our bodies. It helps us make better choices, effectively handle stress effectively and improve how we interact with others, says DeAnn Collins, LCSW, manager of Health First Behavioral Wellness.

Here, Collins lays out five tips and tricks to keeping a healthy, positive mindset. They don't take up too much time:

STRESS MANAGEMENT

Focus on what you can control – and work to release what you can't. Fretting over things you can't change is natural. Try to spot those patterns and gently redirect your thoughts. Don't permit them to add to your worries. Acceptance and peace are key to moving forward.

PRACTICE GROUNDING TECHNIQUES

One way to gently refocus is to take a moment to find your pulse. Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale fully from your mouth. Repeat over several breaths. Grounding techniques are used to self-soothe, calm and help in managing difficult emotions in times of stress. They are one technique that can give you the feeling of being in control in a world that may at times feel out of our control.

PRACTICE POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Speaking to ourselves is something we do all the time, but what are we saying? Try something affirming. This could be a Bible scripture verse or a simple, positive phrase. Choose one that's meaningful to you. As humans, we believe what we tell ourselves – positive or negative. So ditch downer thoughts and practice positive affirmations. This simple task can help to improve mood and feelings of self-worth. Go ahead, boost your confidence!

ENGAGE IN MINDFUL WALKING

Mindfulness is just taking time to notice what you're physically sensing – your sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste. Really be present in the moment. Walking meditation can be a formal practice, like watching your breathing. Or it can be informal, bringing awareness to this everyday activity, like walking your pet – or walking into a building. Give yourself an opportunity to gather your awareness, which often is cast aside when our minds are distracted or stuck. Get out of a distracted autopilot mode, which many of us can be in during much of the day. (No time for a walk? How about pouring a glass or mug of your favorite (healthy) beverage and engaging your senses?)

SELF-COMPASSION

Take a moment to practice self-compassion through gratitude. Make a list of five things that you are happy about right now. Do it daily, and reflect on it when you need an attitude adjustment.

Learn more at HF.org/BehavioralWellness or call 321.434.7604.