News & Events 2

Ways to Maintain Emotional Wellness

by Anthony Maez

During difficult times emotional wellness becomes even more crucial as it can significantly impact our overall well-being and ability to cope with challenges. Here are some tips to help maintain emotional wellness during tough periods:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to feel and process your emotions. It’s okay to experience a wide range of emotions during difficult times, such as sadness, fear, anger, or frustration. Give yourself permission to express and accept these feelings without judgment.

Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or support groups. Talking to someone you trust can provide comfort, validation, and different perspectives. Sharing your feelings can also lighten the emotional burden.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Understand that it’s normal to struggle during tough times, and you are doing the best you can. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer to a friend in a similar situation.

Limit Exposure to Negative News: While staying informed is essential, consuming too much negative news can be overwhelming and exacerbate stress and anxiety. Set boundaries and take breaks from media if needed.

Engage in Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness to help reduce stress and promote emotional balance.

Maintain a Routine: Try to establish and stick to a daily routine. Having structure in your day can provide a sense of stability and control during uncertain times.

Physical Activity: Engaging in regular, physical activity can boost your mood and reduce stress. Whether it’s a walk outside, home workouts, or any form of exercise you enjoy, it can have positive effects on your emotional well-being.

Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you find it challenging to cope with your emotions or a difficult situation, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. They can provide valuable guidance and tools to help you navigate through tough times.

Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life, even amidst challenges. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply acknowledging the things you are grateful for can help shift your perspective and foster a more positive mindset.

Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Make time for hobbies, interests, or activities that bring you joy. Engaging in pleasurable activities can provide a sense of normalcy and help take your mind off difficulties, even if only temporarily.

Remember that emotional wellness is a journey, and it’s okay to have good and bad days. Be patient with yourself and remember that with time and support, you can build resilience and navigate through difficult times more effectively.

Anthony Maez
Anthony is a Deputy Commander with the Albuquerque Police Department (APD). Before returning to APD, he was the Special Agent in Charge with the Office of New Mexico Attorney General and the Commander of the New Mexico Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) and Human Trafficking Task Forces. Anthony has been in law enforcement in New Mexico for over 35 years. He lectures both domestically and internationally on violent crime, ICAC, and Human Trafficking investigations, as well as mental wellness.
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