"Addressing your mental health concerns is an essential part of your self-care. Prioritizing mental well-being allows you to manage stress effectively, build resilience, improve cognitive function and maintain healthier relationships. Taking care of your mental health is just as vital as maintaining your physical health, as the two are intertwined. Just as exercise and nutrition play an important role in physical wellness, there are also important measures you can take to maintain your mental health and well-being.
“Relaxation, self-reflection, meditation and time with friends, family and pets are all essential. Self-care isn’t only for those who struggle with mental illness but for everyone. Chronic stress and untreated anxiety can lead to serious physical issues, including heart disease, a weakened immune system and sleep disorders. By managing your mind, you are literally protecting your body.
“Ultimately, mental health is about longevity and fulfillment. It isn’t just the absence of illness; it is the presence of the tools needed to enjoy life, handle challenges and thrive. By investing in your mental health, you ensure that you aren’t just surviving your days but actually living them with purpose and peace.”
Daugherty is the CEO of Emergence Health Network in El Paso, Texas. She also serves on the NMSU College of Health, Education and Social Transformation’s advisory board. In 2025, she was inducted into the El Paso Women’s Hall of Fame for her mental health well-being advocacy.
1305 N. Horseshoe Street
Las Cruces, NM 88003
