Mental Health Tips for People Living in Small Towns
People living in small towns can find it difficult to find ways to stay mentally healthy. This can be due to lack of activities or even counseling services in small town areas. It can feel defeating sometimes when you want to feel healthier, both physically and mentally, but don’t know where to start. As someone who grew up in a rural town in Natchitoches Parish and grew up in Natchitoches, mental health was not something that was really discussed or explored. Since our counseling practice recently opened, it has become more apparent that people who have lived their entire lives in this small town may not know all that there is to engage in for improving mental health. There are many things you can do for your mental health in Natchitoches, LA and here are some ideas:
Walking or Hiking
Go for a walk or hike in a local park or nature preserve. Natchitoches has several beautiful parks and nature areas, such as the Cane River Creole National Historic Park, Kisatchie National Forest, and the Bayou Pierre Wildlife Management Area. Many places are only a short drive away from the small city of Natchitoches. The Front Street area of Natchitoches is also a beautiful place to go for a short walk and even sit and duck/goose watch and just enjoy being outdoors.
Exercise
Join a local fitness class or gym. Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and reduce stress. Natchitoches has several fitness centers and studios that offer classes like yoga, Pilates, and Zumba.
Consider Support Groups
Attend a support group or therapy session. There are many mental health resources available in Natchitoches, including support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care. You can check out local resources online or through your healthcare provider. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting is a group practice with several Licensed Therapists who specialize in a variety of different therapies and populations.
Get Creative
Participate in a creative activity. Art, music, and writing can be great outlets for stress relief and self-expression. Natchitoches does have art galleries, music venues, and writing groups. These can also be great ways of meeting new people who share similar hobbies which are important for mental health.
Give Back to the Community
Volunteer in the community. Helping others can be a great way to boost your own mental health and sense of purpose. Natchitoches has many volunteer opportunities, such as serving at a local food bank or participating in a community service project. You can also search online for volunteer opportunities in the community if you aren’t sure of what is available.
Mental Health is Health
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. There are many resources available in Natchitoches to support you. If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to a mental health provider who can help you in getting to a place that you feel better. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting or other mental health providers in Natchitoches can help you to improve your mental health and get connected with activities and resources in the area.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Beebe, LPC-S, specializes in working with adults who struggle with a variety of life’s challenges. She works with a team of highly trained therapists who understand how to help those struggling with difficult emotions find the relief they are seeking. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting’s mission is to inspire hope for change to help individuals move forward and live fully. Click here to schedule an appointment today.
Other Services Offered at Be Inspired:
Adult Counseling isn’t the only service provided at our Alexandria, LA and Natchitoches, LA locations. We also offer online therapy, trauma therapy, grief counseling, and anxiety treatment. In addition, we also offer child counseling and teen counseling. Feel free to visit our consulting services, FAQ, or blog pages for helpful info!
