It was a breezy afternoon downtown when I spotted a group of short, yellow figures buzzing around the fountain. The Minions—my little Mental Health Warrior buddies—were waving frantically. These guys are the definition of energy: equal parts chaos and charm. But today, they looked particularly animated. “Bruce!” one of them squeaked, dashing over to me. “We’ve been waiting for you!”
“Hey, guys!” I greeted them warmly. The Minions and I had bonded over the Mental Health Warrior Program—new SELF-HELP approach—I created after spending over 20 years battling Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD. The program is based on the reality that mental health challenges don’t discriminate—they come for everyone, no matter who you are or what your life looks like. But as Mental Health Warriors, we know we can triumph over any challenge life throws our way.
“You’re just in time,” said another Minion, hopping up and down like he’d had a double espresso. “We were talking about how crazy life is right now. Current events, the holidays, banana shortages—it’s a lot!”
I nodded, chuckling. “That’s why the Mental Health Warrior Program exists. Challenges don’t care who you are—rich, poor, tall, short, or even small and yellow like you guys. But the good news is, being a warrior isn’t about following a standard life path. It’s about taking charge of your mental health. The progress you make is only limited by the time and effort you put into it.”
The Minions collectively “ooh-ed” in understanding, their googly eyes sparkling with curiosity. “So, what do we do, Boss?” one of them asked, tilting his head.
“I’m glad you asked,” I replied. “Let me share three tips for tackling challenges in this topsy-turvy world. You can use them every day, no matter what’s going on. And I bet you’ll have some great ideas for how to apply them in your own adventures.”
Tip 1: Prioritize Your Mental Health Every Day
“First and foremost,” I began, “never skip your mental health check-in. I know you’re busy with your gadgets, experiments, and, well, whatever else you Minions are up to. But even on the busiest days, find 15-30 minutes for yourself. Use that time to process your emotions and form a plan with some Mental Health Warrior tools. Even if you don’t take action immediately, having a plan is empowering.”
Minion’s Takeaway:
One Minion raised his hand. “So, like, when we’re building a rocket and it’s going wrong, instead of freaking out, we could stop and make a plan?”
“Exactly!” I said. “By stepping back and organizing your thoughts, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more in control. Plus, when you act on your plan later, you’ll feel confident that you’re moving forward.” The Minions nodded in unison. “We can do that!”
Tip 2: Don’t Get Caught in the Frenzy (Find Your Oasis)
“Here’s the second tip,” I continued. “Don’t let the frantic pace of the news or future worries sweep you away. Instead, focus on today. Give yourself permission to take one positive action, like eating a meal that supports your mental health, going for a walk, or even playing a video game. It’s about creating a private oasis in the middle of the chaos—a calm place that restores your emotional center.”
Minion’s Takeaway:
A Minion with a clipboard spoke up. “So, like, if the banana market crashes, we don’t have to panic. We could eat a nice salad or play ping-pong to feel better?” “Exactly!” I said, laughing. “Finding that small escape—whether it’s food, an activity, or even just sitting quietly—keeps you grounded and stops you from being overwhelmed by the ‘tsunami’ of information that hits us every day.”
The Minions started brainstorming excitedly. “We could build a mini-golf course in the lab!” one suggested. “Or try yoga!” another chimed in. “Perfect ideas,” I said. “Whatever helps you reset, do that.”
Tip 3: Use a NEW Mental Health Warrior Tool Every Day
“Finally,” I said, “commit to using at least one Mental Health Warrior tool each day. Whether it’s from one of the blog articles, books, or videos on the website, pick a tool and apply it. Set an achievable goal of using just one, and in a week, you’ll have a whole arsenal of warrior tools. You’ll feel empowered and ready to handle even the trickiest challenges.”
Minion’s Takeaway:
A Minion with goggles raised his hand. “So, if we’re feeling down because our latest invention exploded, we could grab a warrior tool to help us stay motivated?” “Exactly,” I said. “Maybe it’s journaling about what went wrong and how to improve, or practicing deep breathing to calm down. The important thing is to build those tools into your daily routine so they’re there when you need them.”
The Minions chattered excitedly, coming up with ideas. “We could make a checklist of tools to try!” one said. “Or have a ‘Tool of the Day’ in the lab!” “Now you’re thinking like warriors,” I said, beaming.
Parting Words from Warriors
As we wrapped up our conversation, the Minions looked reinvigorated. They stood a little taller (or as tall as Minions can), ready to face whatever challenges came their way.
“We’re going to try these tips!” one declared. “Every day, we’ll prioritize mental health, find our calm oasis, and use our tools. Challenges don’t stand a chance!” “That’s the spirit,” I said, giving them a thumbs-up. “The key is to keep moving forward. Life will always throw new challenges at us, but as Mental Health Warriors, we’re always building our strength and filling our warrior toolbelt, so that we are prepared for whatever comes next.”
One Minion raised a tiny fist in the air. “Like the Coast Guard motto - "Semper Paramus" - Always ready!” I laughed. “Exactly. Now go tackle the day, warriors!”
Our Takeaway
As the Minions buzzed off, chatting about their next adventure, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. They reminded me that mental health challenges truly don’t discriminate. Whether you’re rich or poor, tall or short, human or Minion, everyone faces struggles.
But as Mental Health Warriors, we have the tools to face those challenges head-on. By prioritizing our mental health, finding moments of calm (your oasis), and filling our warrior toolbelt, we can navigate even the most chaotic days with resilience and overcome any challenge.
So, the next time life feels overwhelming, channel your inner Minion: embrace the warrior mindset, take action, and remember—you’ve got this! Each day, you’re exercising your Mental Health “muscles” and building your Warrior Strength!
Bruce Schutter
Creator of Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin
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