Dr. Lena Pearlman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the Clinical Director at Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates, a trusted mental health therapy practice in St. Louis, Missouri.
During a break between sessions, I asked her an important question many people struggle with today:
“What are some creative and practical ways to take care of mental health in everyday life?”
Her answer focuses on simple actions that improve emotional balance, reduce anxiety, and strengthen mental wellness naturally.
Building helps your brain slow down and focus. Dr. Pearlman suggests starting with something small, like building a birdhouse, shelf, or wooden project.
When you build, your mind stays engaged in problem-solving, hand movement, and creativity. This reduces overthinking and stress. By the end, you don’t just feel better, you also have a finished product and a sense of accomplishment.
Not into woodwork? Try painting on a large canvas, sketching, or doing any creative project that gives you a result at the end. Creative expression is a powerful mental health tool for anxiety relief, emotional grounding, and self-confidence building.
Baking is another excellent way to care for your mental health. It requires attention, patience, and structure, which helps calm racing thoughts.
Choose a recipe you’ve never tried before. Measuring ingredients, following steps, and waiting for results teaches mindfulness and keeps your mind present.
Many therapists recommend baking as a form of stress management, anxiety control, and emotional regulation, especially for people dealing with depression, burnout, or daily pressure.
Volunteering helps both the mind and the heart. Dr. Pearlman recommends doing something that helps others while also making you feel useful and connected.
For example, volunteering at a homeless shelter, community center, animal shelter, or local charity in St. Louis can improve mood and purpose.
Helping others activates positive emotions, reduces loneliness, and supports long-term mental wellness. It’s one of the most natural ways to improve self-esteem, emotional health, and social connection.
Spending time outdoors has proven mental health benefits. Simple activities like a walk, picnic, hike, or park visit can significantly lower anxiety and stress levels.
Fresh air, sunlight, and movement help reset the nervous system. Even a short outdoor break improves mood, focus, and emotional stability.
For people in St. Louis, exploring local parks, trails, or nature areas is a powerful way to support mental health naturally and consistently.
Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a respected mental health therapy and counseling practice in Creve Coeur, Missouri. The team of licensed therapists provides compassionate care for:
They specialize in treating:
Stress and anxiety
Depression
Relationship issues
Emotional challenges
Life transitions
Mental health disorders
If you’re searching for mental health therapy in St. Louis, personalized counseling, or professional emotional support, their practice offers a safe and supportive environment.
Phone: 314-942-1147
Email: bryan@stlmentalhealth.com
Website: https://www.stlmentalhealth.com
Address: 655 Craig Road, Suite 300 St. Louis, MO 63141
Their experienced therapists are dedicated to helping individuals improve emotional wellness, manage anxiety, and live healthier, balanced lives in the St. Louis, Missouri area.
