What is International Self-Care Day?
Today is International Self-Care Day — a day to remember that you are worth caring for. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup and you deserve to feel your best.
Self-care looks different for everyone. It could be 10 quiet minutes with your morning coffee, a walk around the block or a call to a friend who makes you laugh. What matters most is that you make space for it. You’re worth that care.
Why Self-Care Matters for Your Mental Health
Sometimes it feels like we don’t have enough time or money for self-care. We get it. But self-care can be super simple and free. It means doing small things that help you feel calm and strong.
In 2024, 43% of adults reported feeling more anxious than the year before. Over half (53%) said stress and 40% said poor sleep, had the biggest effect on their mental health (American Psychiatric Association). When people practice mindfulness and relaxation, they often feel less anxious and more hopeful.
Taking care of yourself helps you better handle stress. It keeps you from burning out and helps you stay ready for whatever comes your way.
Easy Self-Care Ideas You Can Try Right Now
You don’t need a lot of time or money to care for yourself. Here are some quick, simple ideas
- In five minutes or less: Take three deep breaths, stretch your arms or step outside to feel the fresh air on your face.
- When you feel overwhelmed: Write down one thing you’re grateful for or send a kind text to a friend.
- No cost, big impact: Listen to your favorite song, sip a warm drink slowly or try a free guided meditation online.
Want to make self-care more fun?
Download Monarch’s Self-Care Bingo Card – a fun, printable guide with simple activities you can try anytime.
You can also check out these free worksheets that help you explore your feelings and create your own self-care plan:
Remember: You Are Enough
Self-care is something you practice, not something you need to perfect. Some days will be harder than others. Today, give yourself permission to slow down and breathe. Take care of the whole you. Be kind to yourself. You matter just as you are.
Monarch Is Here to Help
If you or someone you care about needs a little extra help with mental health, we’re here. Monarch is ready to support you. Click here or call (866) 272-7826 to get started.
References
- American Institute of Stress. (2023). Adults. https://www.stress.org/who-gets-stressed/adults/
- American Psychiatric Association. (2024). American adults express increasing anxiousness in annual poll; Stress and sleep are key factors impacting mental health. https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/annual-poll-adults-express-increasing-anxiousness
- National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). 5 things you should know about stress. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/stress