and self-value. When practiced routinely, affirmations can have a positive impact on your mental, emotional and physical health. Positive self-talk is centered on uplifting ourselves, being understanding and having kind thoughts. It comes from a place of self-compassion and self-love. Engage in positive self-talk by using affirmations or mantras, for example: • Today I did my best and that is enough. • I am proud of myself. • I am in charge of how I feel. • I am grateful for (fill in the blank). 5. Seek out social support when needed. Strong social support can help you work through stress and anxiety. Having a trusted family member, friend, co- worker or neighbor you feel comfortable contacting who you can talk to or simply hang out with can be the remedy needed to uplift you, keep you going and positively impact your mental, emotional and even physical health. When you are struggling, try not to isolate yourself. You’ve got this! Learning to cope with stress or anxiety can require some trial and error. It’s important to identify your triggers and responses and find strategies that work for you.
If your stress or anxiety does not respond well to self-care techniques or coping strategies or if you feel that stress or anxiety is affecting your day-to-day functioning or mood, please consider talking to a licensed mental health professional who can help you understand what you are experiencing and provide you with additional support. This is a decision to be proud of, not ashamed of. Your seeking help is also a powerful reminder to your children that it’s OK for them to ask for help so they don’t have to navigate their struggles alone. Caring for your children is an important job, but caring for yourself is a key part of parenting, too. Self-care practices can help reduce your anxiety, relieve stress and improve your mood. Be intentional in giving self-care the time needed to become a routine that fits into your lifestyle. Start small, and take your time developing a routine that meets your specific needs. Editor’s note: Katrina Leggins is a licensed mental health therapist, owner of private practice Elevate Mental Wellness, LLC, self- care educator, writer and public speaker. She is an Oklahoma native who is the owner and founder of K. Nicole Writing LLC, an informational and inspirational platform that helps motivate individuals through mental health education, empowerment and inspiration. Katrina also runs a t-shirt apparel line and provides mental health products that focus on raising awareness for self-care and mental health. Katrina can be found on all social media platforms @knicolewriting and at her website knicolewriting.com.
Join us at Scissortail Park Saturday, June 18 10am-2pm
Free Admission!!! • Petting Zoo • Inflatables • Face Painting • Character Meet & Greet • Crafts & Games • Discover family-friendly businesses AND MORE!
metrofamilymagazine.com/ kids-fest
Presenting Sponsor
Community Sponsor SoccerCity OKC
Engagement Sponsors
Oklahoma Hall of Fame Chester's Party Barn & Farm
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY-JUNE 2022 57
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