Everyday Ways to Support Your Mood and Mind!
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month.
Everyone has mental health, just like everyone has physical health. And just like our bodies need care, so do our minds. Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to talk about emotional well-being, reduce stigma, and remind all of us that support is always available.
At South Tabor Family Physicians, we believe that your health includes your mood, thoughts, sleep, and how you manage stress. Whether you feel “a little off” or are facing a bigger challenge, our Health Care Providers are here to help. In this post, we’ll share simple, everyday ways to care for your mental health—and when to reach out for more support.
What Is Mental Health?
Mental health includes how you:
- Feel and express emotions
- Handle stress or change
- Think clearly and make decisions
- Stay connected to others
- Sleep, eat, and take care of yourself
Good mental health doesn’t mean you’re happy all the time. It means you’re able to manage life’s ups and downs, ask for help when needed, and feel balanced more often than not.
Signs You May Need More Support
Everyone feels stressed or sad now and then. But if these feelings last for more than a couple of weeks, or start to affect daily life, it’s time to check in with a Health Care Provider.
Common Signs of Mental Health Struggles:
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Feeling very tired, hopeless, or anxious
- Difficulty focusing or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feeling angry, overwhelmed, or numb
- Withdrawing from family or friends
You’re not alone—and you don’t need to figure it out on your own.
Everyday Ways to Support Your Mental Health
- Get Outside
Spending time outdoors can lower stress, improve mood, and help you feel more connected. Even a 10-minute walk in your neighborhood or at a local park can make a big difference.
- Move Your Body
Exercise doesn’t have to be hard or long. Stretching, walking, dancing, or gardening all count. Physical movement helps release “feel-good” chemicals in your brain and improves sleep and focus.
- Connect with Others
Call a friend. Talk to a neighbor. Share a meal with family. Human connection helps us feel seen, safe, and supported.
- Stick to a Routine
Waking up, eating, and going to bed at regular times helps your brain feel more stable and calm.
- Practice Gratitude or Joy
Write down three small things you’re thankful for each day. This simple habit can shift your mindset and reduce stress.
- Limit Screen Time
Too much time on social media or the news can increase anxiety. Set a timer or take breaks during the day to unplug.
- Talk About How You Feel
It’s okay to say “I’m not okay.” Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or Health Care Provider is a healthy and brave step.
When to Reach Out for Help
It’s always okay to ask for help—whether you’re managing stress, going through a loss, or just don’t feel like yourself.
Our Health Care Providers at South Tabor Family Physicians can:
- Check for physical issues that may affect mood
- Talk with you about your symptoms
- Offer support for anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and more
- Connect you with counselors or mental health specialists
- Help create a plan that works for your lifestyle and needs
If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available 24/7.
Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org.
Supporting Mental Health in the Portland Community
We know that life in Portland has its own unique challenges—weather changes, work demands, parenting stress, caregiving, and more. Our team is here to provide care that meets you where you are, whether you need emotional support, routine checkups, or help managing a chronic condition that affects your mood.
We provide:
- Wellness exams and preventive care
- Chronic condition management (like diabetes, insomnia, or pain-related depression)
- Same-day appointments for urgent health needs
- Pediatric, adult, and senior care
- On-site lab testing and care coordination
We are accepting new patients and are conveniently located right off I-205 in Portland.
Take a Step Toward Better Mental Health Today
You deserve care for your whole self—body and mind. This May, make your mental well-being a priority. Call South Tabor Family Physicians at 503-261-7200 to schedule a visit.
Let’s work together toward health, balance, and peace of mind.
