Nothing could be more important than your health—and that includes your mental health. May is National Mental Health Awareness month and it’s a good time to think about ways you can prioritize your mental well-being, especially given the challenges the pandemic has created for many over the past year or so. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tips to consider:

• Get moving. Regular exercise helps boost your mood, improve self-esteem, reduce stress, and lessen feelings of anxiety and depression. Even working out as little as 30 minutes a day can improve your mental health. If that’s sounds like a tall order, start small and gradually add a few minutes to your workout over time.
• Set boundaries. Establish limits and don’t be afraid to say “no”, especially when you have too many responsibilities and obligations. When you agree to everything, you deny yourself the chance to decompress and recharge.
• Practice self-care. Do nice things for yourself. It can be as simple as taking a relaxing bath after a stressful week, taking a long, leisurely walk, or even buying yourself a new pair of shoes.
• Create a support system. When the going gets tough, it’s good to have a good group of family and friends you trust and can lean on for reassurance—or even just to lend an ear. Think about who your network is and reach out when you need them.

Support and Help When You Need It

If you’re struggling with mental health issues, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as of June 2020, 40 percent of U.S. adults reported they had symptoms of mental distress —and the numbers have continued to increase in the months since, with many saying they are experiencing anxiety, depression or both.

If you or a family member needs professional help or even just a quick touch-base when dealing with a life challenge, tap into Transocean’s mental health benefits and resources. The range of tools available allows you to access care the way you feel most comfortable—and on your schedule, whether you need immediate help or you want to do some research on your own. Some of the services available to you include:

• 24/7 phone coverage for urgent mental health needs,
• In-person and virtual counseling sessions with licensed professionals,
• Informational websites with learning libraries, videos, and other content, and
• An app with self-help tools and the ability to track your moods and mental health progress.

For more details about your Transocean mental health benefits and resources, visit the Healthy Mind section of the My Journey Well-Being site.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6932a1.htm?s_cid=mm6932a1_w#T2_down