The Importance of Taking Care of the Basics

Maslovs' Hierarchy

In order to become our healthiest selves, we need to take care of our basics.  All things in life build on top of each other, as shown in Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs.  To move up the pyramid you have to first take care of the steps below. Here are some simple tips to help take care of our needs, leading to better mental health.

• Get a routine.  We do better with a routine.  It helps our bodies to know and prepare for what is coming.
• Create a regular and consistent sleep schedule.  We need around 7-9 hours a night.  We need regular bed/wake times.  This helps with the body’s rhythm.
• Eat Regularly.  We need 3-6 meals/snakes a day.  Having 80% of the food nutritional food and 20% play food.
• Exercise three times a week.  Exercise helps to get the brain chemistry flowing.
• Take meds as prescribed.  Regular meds help to keep the body healthy and in rhythm.  Taking care of our physical health has a major impact on our mental health.

Lastly be kind to yourself and remember it’s not where you’re at that counts, It’s the direction you’re heading.  Every step counts.   

Kristy Goodson, LCSW