A Zest for Life

By Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT

Being mentally healthy means more than not being anxious, depressed, or any of the 300 disorders listed in diagnostic manuals. Being mental healthy, emotionally healthy, and resilient are interconnected with several desirable characteristics that, if not present in a person, can be learned. These characteristics include flexibility, gratitude, contentment, and a sense of confidence and purpose. Taking control of your mental health requires you to be accountable for investing in the types of exercises that generate emotional strength.

Enjoying a clear sense of being mentally healthy does not mean you will never go through hard times. All of us will experience disappointment, stress, loss, and trauma. We will endure changes over which we have no control. How we respond to these and other stressors directly relates to our levels of resilience. Being psychologically resilient means you bounce back from crises quickly by responding well to the negative stressors in your life. Resilient people are more flexible, more present, and less afraid of uncertainty.

Some of you are looking for better ways to cope with specific mental health problems. Others are wanting to create more satisfaction, feel more energetic, and generate more positivity. No matter what you are seeking, there are infinite ways to take control of your mental wellbeing right now.

Five Strategies for Building Resilience and Mental Well-Being

A strong sense of governing purpose is the foundation for getting your needs met in a healthy manner. A governing purpose is like a guide or North Star that you can use to remain on course with your life. Having a purpose in life gives meaning to your daily tasks and goals. It becomes the big reason why you get up in the morning ready to create.

A positive mental attitude springs from the meaning we place on things and the words we use to describe our experiences. Don’t immerse yourself in negative thinking. Stay connected to positive people. Remember, you have a specific purpose to guide you.

Social connections that are face-to-face can be stress-busting events. Talking to another person and being understood is key to friendship, connection, and even romance. Choose a best friend, spouse, or partner that can really listen for the feeling behind your words without criticism or judgment.

Keep your physical body healthy and in check by eating healthy meals, regularly exercising your body and mind, and getting adequate sleep. Your mind and body are connected at every level. When you take great care of your body, you are going to manifest emotional health. This will translate into resilience during difficult times in your life.

Keep stress in check! Stress is a drain on your energy levels and your emotional well-being. You can’t avoid stress, but you can manage it. Managing stress is a daily detail that if avoided, will cause stress to build until it appears to take over your senses. Managing stress levels requires you to take time for self-care and unselfish service, organize a written schedule that is never overbooked, and always have something to look forward to.

Boosting your mood, becoming more resilient, and managing your emotions is completely possible. Do a few things every day to become a little better, and you will find the peace and joy that you deserve. You are incredible! We are all incredible, capable humans!

About the Author

Matt lives in St. George, Utah, where he and his wife, Chris, are enjoying their life with each other. Since their children have grown up and moved out to pursue their dreams, Matt and Chris travel the world. They want to visit 200 countries before they are done. Matt and Chris are active in their community and enjoy working out, training for marathons, and spending time participating in numerous activities with their adult children. Matt received a PhD in psychology. He is focused on the arena of resolving personal conflicts and improving interpersonal relationships. In addition to his doctorate degree, Matt has earned a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, studied criminal justice and received a category one license with Peace Officer Standards and Training, and received a degree in the Arts of Business Management. Matt is a professor at Dixie State University and hopes to be part of the positive growth of southern Utah.

Matt Eschler