Having safe, stable, and healthy home conditions sets the foundation for achieving and maintaining good mental health. For many people, not having a true “home base” to consistently return to can leave them feeling distressed, disconnected or isolated. Stable housing allows individuals to develop routines and connections to their local community which are beneficial for mental health.
Wherever you call “home,” it should give you feelings of comfort, support, and calmness. If not, there are things you can do to your space to help you be more productive, reach your goals, and improve your mental health.
This week, review Safe and Stable Housing Fact Sheet (en español) to learn how unstable housing may contribute to poor mental health and impact someone’s sense of psychological safety. The fact sheet includes guidance and suggested actions for those experiencing unstable housing, feeling unsafe, and/or navigating exposure to potential safety hazards.
In addition to stable housing, we are also impacted by the environment within our home. Clutter can be harmful to our mental state while tidiness can provide predictability and cut down on brain fatigue and anxiety.
Review this Healthy Home Environments Fact Sheet (en español) for tips on creating tidy spaces, making your bedroom sleep-friendly, creating comfort at home, checking air quality, and setting yourself up for success even when you’re feeling down.
Use the companion worksheet (en español) to get started shaping a home environment that will help your mental health! Mental Health America offers more articles and information regarding safe and stable housing and healthy home environments if you wish to dive deeper or know someone in need of more support.
This week, we also recognize CA Student Mental Health Awareness Week. With over 5.8 million public school students, we acknowledge the psychological and emotional well-being of our students is as important as their academic achievement. Share the SDCOE Teen Guide to Mental Health and Wellness in English and Spanish far and wide with your students!