By LaKisha Watson, MS, LCDC-I, Manager of AllOne Therapy
January is Self-Love Month, which often gets reduced to slogans or inspirational quotes. But in mental health, self-love is an evidence-based protective factor, influencing everything from stress levels to interpersonal functioning. It refers to the ongoing practice of treating yourself with respect, compassion, and awareness.
Why Self-Love Feels Hard for Many People
Culturally, many people were raised to believe that caring for themselves is selfish or unnecessary. Others internalized criticism early in life and learned to push past their emotional needs. Trauma, perfectionism, workplace pressure, and societal expectations can also interfere with a healthy internal relationship.
Because of this, self-love rarely develops naturally—it is something most people must intentionally learn.
What Self-Love Actually Looks Like
In mental health, self-love is not indulgence. It involves a series of consistent behaviors and attitudes:
- Healthy self-talk: Recognizing when you’re being harsh with yourself and choosing a more balanced perspective
- Boundaries: Respecting your emotional capacity instead of saying “yes” out of obligation
- Self-awareness: Understanding the connection between your emotions and your behaviors
- Rest: Allowing recovery without guilt
- Affirmation: Identifying strengths rather than over-focusing on flaws
These practices protect emotional health by reducing internal conflict and supporting psychological resilience.
How Self-Love Supports Daily Mental Health
Research shows that self-compassion and self-respect correlate with:
- Lower anxiety
- Lower depressive symptoms
- Better emotional regulation
- More stable relationships
- Reduced burnout
When people treat themselves with care, they are more likely to seek support, adopt healthier coping mechanisms, and communicate clearly. They also tend to navigate life transitions—including grief, career changes, and relationship stress—with greater steadiness.
Building a Better Relationship With Yourself in 2026
For some, the first step is simply noticing the tone of their inner voice. Is it judgmental? Dismissive? Overly demanding? Changing this internal dialogue takes time, but even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference.
Self-love is also strengthened through therapeutic support. Many individuals use therapy as a space to explore self-worth, identity, and emotional patterns that get in the way of self-acceptance. Therapy can help people challenge old narratives, develop practical tools, and learn to view themselves with more clarity and compassion.
Self-love is not a destination—it is a skill set. And January serves as a helpful reminder to practice it deliberately.
If you would like to talk to someone and are considering therapy, we invite you to explore our services or book a session now.