The Importance of Mental Health in a Constantly Stimulated World

As an influencer, I know first-hand the negative effects that my industry can have on mental health across the globe. There are days where it’s hard to decipher what’s real and what isn’t, who’s using apps to alter their body, and who’s being authentic. It’s easy to get caught up in the thick of it all. That’s why it’s important to make time for your own mental health and wellbeing so you can find ways to tune in.

Personally, I’ve struggled with anxiety and aspects of burnout. I find it really hard to say no to things. A large part of my job involves going to events and networking, and I’m totally guilty of overcommitting. Saying no is something I have to practice, and it’s likely something I have to work on on a continual basis. That being said, throughout the years I’ve found ways to make time for myself and lose the feeling of guilt that comes with saying no. Because overcommitting to things doesn’t do anyone any good. A few things that work for me when I’m feeling overwhelmed have been:

1. Gravity Blankets — I feel my anxiety lighten almost instantly when I use these. I usually cuddle up on the couch on days when I’m working from home and can feel myself starting to get stressed over my hectic schedule and to-do list that seems never-ending. Also, fun tip — gravity blankets really help you fall asleep if you’ve ever had any issues with that! (Use my code HONESTLYKATE20 for a discount on the Gravity site)

1. Peppermint Essential Oils — Essentials oils are widely known for their natural healing benefits. For me, peppermint is my go-to oil because I tend to have a lot of discomfort in my stomach, especially when I’m stressed out. A drop or two of peppermint essential oil and my diffuser and I always feel more relaxed. It always reminds me how connected the mind and body are too. 

1. Acupuncture — I swear by this. If you’ve never been, I highly recommend booking a session (and you can always close your eyes if you’re spooked by needles)! I started using acupuncture in acting school when I would get stressed before performances, and I’ve been going ever since. Acupuncture helps me reach a state of relaxation that completely changes my stress levels. (Use my code “honestlykate01” FOR 10% off at WTHN)

1. Reading Affirmation Books — Currently, I’m loving the book, Journey to the Heart, by Melodie Beattie. As an entrepreneur, it gives me all the feels. I’m inspired after every chapter, and that’s something you don’t always get after scrolling through your social feeds. It’s important to give your eyes a break from screens too — to be honest, I think we’ve all forgotten how good it feels to read.

1. Headspace App — Let me start by saying that meditation is really hard for me. In a world where we’re constantly stimulated, sitting and stilling your body and mind is insanely hard. But this app has helped me to not only learn to focus more, but to let my thoughts pass through so I can just “be”. 

1. Saying No — I’ve learned the importance of “me” time, and that it’s okay to say no. Like I said earlier, this is something that does not come naturally for me. The industry I work in is extremely competitive, and sometimes it feels like we can miss out on something by saying no, but I’ve learned the immense benefits of setting time for myself, cancelling a meeting if I mentally cannot do it, and booking a massage instead. This is something I think should be talked about more. We shouldn’t feel guilty for saying no, we should learn to embrace it, and to cherish the time we make for ourselves.

At the end of the day, I think this industry, and the Instagram platform in particular, has an incredible opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. It’s a space where we can showcase our feelings and find others who feel the same way — a space to come together and shed light on realities that are hard to face. I know this is way easier said than done, and that it’s really tough to make time for your mental health and wellbeing. But time for yourself is important, because YOU are important. Always remember that.