by Bethany Eggers, MA, LPC-MH

Mental health and boundaries are closely interconnected. Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Here is a breakdown of the relationship between the two:

Boundaries and Self-Care: Setting boundaries is an act of self-care that helps protect your mental and emotional well-being. When you establish clear limits on what is acceptable or tolerable for you in different situations and relationships, you create a space where you can prioritize your own needs and protect yourself from excessive stress or harm.

Emotional Boundaries: Emotional boundaries involve understanding and respecting your own emotions and those of others. It means recognizing and communicating your feelings, needs and limits while acknowledging the emotions and boundaries of others. By establishing emotional boundaries, you can prevent emotional exhaustion, resentment and relationship conflicts. 

Personal Space and Privacy: Boundaries also encompass physical and personal space. Respecting personal space and privacy allows individuals to have a sense of autonomy and control over their environment. It is essential for reducing anxiety, maintaining a sense of safety, and promoting healthy relationships. 

Time and Energy Management: Boundaries play a significant role in managing your time and energy effectively. Setting limits on commitments, responsibilities, and social interactions helps prevent burnout and allows for proper self-care. It enables you to allocate time and energy to activities and relationships that are most meaningful and fulfilling to you. 

Assertiveness and Self-Advocacy: Establishing boundaries requires assertiveness and self-advocacy skills. It involves expressing your needs, desires, and limits in a respectful and clear manner. By developing these skills, you can enhance your self-esteem, build healthier relationships, and reduce stress caused by internalizing unspoken frustrations or tolerating unacceptable behaviors. 

Remember that boundaries are not about being selfish or uncaring. They are about respecting yourself and others, fostering healthier relationships, and safeguarding your mental and emotional well-being. It’s important to regularly reassess and adjust your boundaries as needed and communicate them effectively with those around you. 

Sometimes, maintaining boundaries can be challenging, especially if you have experienced trauma or have a history of codependency. Seeking support from mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, can provide guidance, tools, and strategies to help you establish and enforce healthy boundaries.  At all four of our locations - River Counseling Services in Platte, Sioux Falls Psychological Services, and Stronghold Counseling Services in Sioux Falls and in Yankton, our mission is this- we meet you where you are, offering hope.  You may schedule an appointment at the Platte office at 605-337-3444 or meet with one of our Sioux Falls or Yankton based therapists from your computer, smartphone, or in person at any of our clinics. To schedule an appointment, please call 605-334-2696.