Understanding the Crucial Role of Mental Health in Overall Wellbeing and How to Use a Mental Health Check-In Questionnaire

Introduction

As May comes to a close, I want to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month on the blog and acknowledge it as a vital opportunity for education, reflection, and awareness. Drifting Towards Simplicity was founded with a vision not only to work on my mental health, but also to help others, and create a community of individuals who can support one another through the everyday challenges stemming from our mental health.

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What is Mental Health?

According to the CDC, Mental health is a component of behavioral health that encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It represents a state of well-being that enables us to cope with life’s stresses, realize our abilities, learn effectively, work efficiently, and contribute to our community. In addition, the CDC states that nearly 1 in 4 US adults live with a mental health condition, almost 1 in 20 live with severe mental health conditions, and almost 1 in 7 children ages 3 to 17 have a current, diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition.

What is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May since 1949, promotes mental well-being, reduces stigma, and encourages support. It’s a time for sharing stories, resources, and advocacy.

Mental Health Check-in Questions: A Simple Guide to Understanding Your Mental Well-being

As we continue to reflect on Mental Health Awareness Month, when was the last time you asked yourself this simple, but powerful question: "How am I really doing?" This is where a mental health check-in can come in. Checking in with yourself regularly can help you stay grounded, manage stress more effectively, and identify when it's time to seek support.

15 Mental Health Check-In Questions to Ask Yourself

1. What emotions have been most present for me today?

2. Have I felt overwhelmed, anxious, or down recently?

3. Am I holding onto any negative feelings or stress?

4. Is my mind feeling clear, or cluttered?

5. Have I been able to focus, or am I easily distracted?

6. What thoughts have been repeating in my mind?

7. Have I made time for rest?

8. What have I done today to take care of myself?

9. Do I feel overcommitted or stretched too thin?

10. Have I connected meaningfully with anyone today?

11. Am I feeling supported and understood?

12. Are there any conversations I've been avoiding?

13. What am I looking forward to?

14. Am I working towards something that matters to me?

15. What's one small thing I can do today to feel more grounded?

    
    

How to Use these Questions?

I am by no means suggesting you need to answer all 15 every day. Instead, pick 3-5 that resonate with you. Try journaling your responses, talking through them with a friend or therapist, or even using them as meditation prompts.

Final Thoughts

Mental health isn't about perfection - it's about awareness, growth, and compassion. Checking in with yourself is a brave and powerful act of self-love. So next time you feel off or simply want to maintain your emotional well-being, take a moment, ask yourself a few questions, and truly listen to the answer.

Keep Reading and Learning More

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, use the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.

Let's continue the chat in the comments or read more about my journey with mental health and wellbeing on the blog.

The content on Drifting Towards Simplicity is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment—please seek support from a licensed professional if needed.