When it comes to mental health, one thing that isn’t mentioned often is hygiene. To most people, going days without brushing your teeth, showering, or combing your hair is disgusting. But for those who struggle with their mental health, it’s the norm. Living with mental illness is a challenge, and even on the best days. It’s a struggle to get out of bed most days let alone take a shower. You start telling yourself you’ll do it later, but keep putting it off. It feels like a fog is hanging over you and it becomes harder to find the motivation to care for your hygiene. You know you need to take care of yourself, but it’s easier said than done. Tasks that seem simple to most are a challenge to take on with a fog hanging over you, and crawling back into bed seems like the best option.
You may ask yourself “why should I even bother getting dressed when nothing matters?” And you only end up digging yourself into a rut. When your mind is racing with thoughts, hygiene isn’t a priority. Not everyone who deals with mental illness struggles with hygiene, but it’s not uncommon. Poor hygiene while dealing with mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. To others, everything may seem fine and you become labeled as a “lazy” or “dirty” person.
Don’t let the judgment of others get you down. You’re battling an invisible illness every day. Even though it may not feel like it, you have people in your life who recognize there’s a problem but don’t know how to approach the situation. If you or someone you know is having a hard time managing their hygiene, here are some tips on approaching them about their hygiene. As well as, steps you can take to get back on track with your hygiene on bad mental health days.
How to Approach Someone about their Hygiene
When approaching someone about their hygiene it’s important to remember it’s a struggle. It’s not laziness or a choice. Be understanding and approach the situation with compassion. It could be a sign of something deeper. Try to discuss it privately with them without pointing blame or shaming them. Let them know you only have their best interests in mind. Discussing hygiene is a highly sensitive topic, so it’s important to remember that understanding and compassion are key. You want them to know that you’re here to help without them feeling humiliated.
After approaching someone about their hygiene, the next step is to be supportive. Remind them that you’re there to help when and that they are not alone on their journey.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
Getting back on Track
The task that people do without thinking twice about are mountains to climb, and some days taking the first few steps seem impossible. Here are a few ways you can get back on track with hygiene on bad mental health days.
Start small
I know it can be overwhelming at first after getting out of a rut. You look around at the mess, and you’re overwhelmed by all the things you left unattended. Take it one step at a time, and go at your own pace. Progress is progress no matter who small. It can be as simple as getting out of bed and taking a shower. Even if you don’t get dressed and only put on pajamas, you’re still making progress. Do what you can when you can and build from there.
Go easy on Yourself
I know it’s easy to put yourself down and feel embarrassed, but you’re doing the best and your best is good enough. Being depressed isn’t something to be ashamed of. We all have our good days and our bad days, but our bad days don’t define us. It happened, and now it’s time to let go and put your energy into getting back on track.
Prioritize self-care
Self-care is more than a trip to the spa or getting your hair and nails done. It’s taking care of your overall well-being. In my post A Beginners Guide to Self-Care I go over the different areas of self-care. Make it a priority to check in with yourself, and ask yourself what do you need.
Ask for help
Things may seem like it’s out of control and you’re overwhelmed by all the tasks you have to tackle. Don’t forget about the people who love care about you. There more than willing to help you out, and not pass judgment. Don’t be afraid to ask others for help when you need it. You don’t have to fight the battle alone.
Poor hygiene is a common symptom of mental illness, and nothing to be ashamed of. Coping with mental illness is a struggle, but there are things you can do to take some of the pressure off. It’s important to remember that it doesn’t help to moralize hygiene. Doing that doesn’t help anyone. We should all practice hygiene, but if your mental health makes it harder, you shouldn’t feel ashamed to reach out for support. Therapy is an excellent place to start. Even though you may feel ashamed remember it’s a common symptom, and the therapist has probably helped someone in a similar situation. They’re also there to help not judge based on your mental state.
Related post: Ways to Help People Struggling With Their Mental Health
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This is so important to talk about!
Definitely!