An Electronic Mental Health Newsletter from Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. & Associates Volume 18, Number 7
Because of the times we live in, especially during this election year, many of us feel stressed. We are constantly bombarded with worrisome news, things we have to do, opportunities we might miss if we don’t hurry and sign up, or by emails which require us to respond. A lot of us feel exhausted and not in control of our lives, with depression, anger, and anxiety being major mental health problems.
One solution to living a happier and peaceful life is to gain a sense of control by organizing and structuring one’s life. This month’s e-Letter, The Importance of Being Organized (Updated), provides information on how you can reduce stress and feel accomplished by putting yourself on a schedule and decluttering your life.
KimmelPsychology has provided a monthly E-Letter for over 18 years, which is educational, informative, and helpful. Topics change every month, but the format remains the same, brief information about the topic as well as suggestions for improvement.
In our past e-Letters, we have asked for comments. The following is just one of the several comments we received from our last e-Letter, Are You Authentic?
Ron writes: I am a subscriber to your newsletter. I want to thank you for sharing your wisdom with your newsletters. I had been struggling with childhood issues for a very long time and am now in a much better place. The current newsletter “Are You Authentic” is a must read for everyone of all ages. Thank you.
You can email your comments to [email protected].. Make sure to read the latest blog addition, Visiting Lighthouses (updated).
KimmelPsychology has committed itself to being available for anyone who is in need of support, therapy, counseling, professional coaching, and psychological and psychoeducational evaluations.
We practice telehealth and safe, in-office visits. We can be reached by calling our office at 954 755-2885 or by going to the Our Staff page on our website, KimmelPsychology.com.
The Importance of Being Organized!
(Photo by Gary Bgd)
Many of us fantasize having nothing to do, no deadlines, and not responding to emails, texts, or other messages. Yes, this is a fantasy in today’s world. Having nothing to do is very appealing yet may actually be detrimental to us. We can benefit from days off, holidays, and vacations but to be happy in life, we need to have a purpose.
Purpose gives meaning to our lives and a direction. It also allows us to have some sense of control in our lives. Self-organization can be a purpose.
Organizing oneself means giving ourselves a structure. It ensures that we get things done and feel a sense of accomplishment. Physically, having a daily routine of when to get up, go to sleep, eat, and take breaks is good for maintaining our circadian rhythm.
Psychologically, having a structure reduces our anxiety and gives us a sense of certainty. Without structure, we forget appointments, tasks we need to do, and even eating and exercising. Being organized can give us a sense of familiarity in our daily lives and overcome procrastination and slacking off.
A prime example of not being organized are those who live in clutter or have unfinished projects that were never completed. Research has shown that people who live in such homes were more depressed, fatigued, and had higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Not having a structure or routine can also cause feelings of being overwhelmed and scattered.
A good way to start being organized is to establish a daily routine with bedtimes, wakeup times, exercise times, and eating times. Choose what activities need to be done that day and schedule them into your day. Choose only two or three based on importance and do not overload what you think you can do in a day. Knowing that these activities are scheduled will allow you to use the other time for enjoyment.
Especially during times of unpredictability and stress, having a structure and routine helps to feel more organized and in control. Sticking with a structure may require effort and time but the rewards can be well worth it. We offer the following information:
The Importance of Being Organized
Getting Organized Is A Sign Of Self-Respect… Gabrielle Bernstein
WHAT TO KNOW!
WHAT TO DO!
- Put yourself on a schedule; decide whether it is better to have structured blocks of time or a more general attitude of getting it done today
- Set a daily schedule for waking, eating, working, fun activities, and sleep
- Keep active and exercise several times a week
- Set realistic goals that can be accomplished
- Have a positive attitude and don’t get stuck on things you can’t control
- Give yourself a reward when a task is accomplished
- When decluttering your home, choose 3 piles: keep, give away, and not sure, which gets looked at again in 3 to 6 months
- Seek professional help if you are unable to structure yourself and feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed
WE PRACTICE BOTH IN-OFFICE AND TELEHEALTH: WE CAN HELP!
Call us at 954 755-2885 or email us at [email protected]
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates
5551 N University Drive, Suite 202
Coral Springs FL 33067
As always, we are interested in your thoughts. If you would like to respond to this e-Letter, email your comments to [email protected] and they will be published next month.
Till August…
The information provided in this electronic newsletter is not a substitute for professional treatment. It is the opinions of the writers and is provided solely for educational purposes. For mental health care, seek a qualified professional.
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Copyright © 2024 by Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates.
