Accounting for 1.64% of answers was journaling, with 10 votes. For those considering giving journaling a try, know that you don't have to be a professional writer to reap the benefits. Experts at the University of Rochester Medical Center say that by simply jotting down your thoughts and feelings, journaling can promote positive self-talk, reduce stress, and help us recognize our fears, concerns, or mental health triggers. Ranking in second-to-last place was therapy with 36 votes, making up nearly 6% of total answers. For some people, receiving the ongoing support of a mental health professional is a form of self-care that can help prevent the buildup of overwhelm (per the National Institute of Mental Health).
The top four answers most popular among respondents pertained to physical health self-care techniques. 100 participants said that staying hydrated was their self-care method of choice, accounting for 16.39% of answers. With just three more votes was healthy eating, making up 16.89% of total votes. Between sleep and exercise, however, sleep came out on top with 193 votes compared to 168 votes for exercise. While all answer options are effective forms of self-care, the Sleep Foundation reports that the benefits of sleep range from improved mood and productivity, to a boost in immunity and heart health. Additionally, getting sufficient amounts of sleep puts one at a lower risk for mental distress.
