How to Regain Self-Esteem after a Mental Health Crisis

Lisa Franchi December 16, 2015

Experiencing a mental health crisis is one of the most challenging moment in a person’s life. Mental illness makes us think differently, act and talk differently, and perceive things in negative ways. And even though you have already recovered, a mental health crisis can also take a huge toll on your self-esteem. It may cause you to feel less confident when dealing with other people and performing your daily activities.

If you’re struggling with mental health crisis or recovering from it, here are tips that can greatly help you:

Take the baby steps.

Things can be overwhelming even during the recovery process. You don’t want to make things more difficult for yourself. The best way to deal with a mental health crisis is to take the baby steps. Those small steps can include dressing up well for a dinner party, going to the salon for a pampering ‘me-time’, ensuring that you are getting enough sleep and rest, and working on small short-term goals. As you celebrate small accomplishments, you will find yourself believing in yourself once again.

Engage in a creative project.

Try spending some time working on a task or activity that stimulates your creativity. Whether it’s writing a poem, sketching, cooking or sewing, engaging in creative tasks give you a rewarding feeling in the end. It is also a great way to divert your attention from negative things.

Fit workout in your schedule.

Working out shouldn’t be just something you consider when you are busy. For it to benefit your mental health for long-term, make it part of your regular routine. If it isn’t possible to do it daily, then opt for at least three or two times a week. Experts recommend 2.5 hours of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week for physical and mental health boost.

Do something fun and different.

Going back to your normal routine may be challenging during the first few weeks of recovery. The tasks can get burdensome and negative thoughts may strike from time to time. To stay put during stressful moments, make sure to inject fun and laughter in your daily life. Do something fun and try something new. You probably have several activities you have always planned of doing before. Perhaps, now is the time to get started with one or two.

Socialise.

Say ‘yes’ to a friend’s invite for a cup of coffee. Dress up for a party. Socialising with others helps you rebuild your self-esteem and gives you opportunities to connect with other people. It also helps you practise your communication and interpersonal skills, which in turn make you more confident.