H.A.L.T.: A Simple Tool for Noticing and Caring for Our Mental Health
Last month, we talked about the power of answering “How are you?” with honesty—naming our feelings and even using a feelings wheel to help identify what’s going on inside.
This month, we’re building on that conversation as we recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. One of the most important things we can do for ourselves is develop skills and habits that care for our mental health. When we practice these skills regularly, we build resilience—our ability to adapt, cope, and keep going even during challenging times.
A big part of resilience comes from paying attention to the signals our body and mind give us. Sometimes, we feel “off” but can’t quite pinpoint why. That’s where the H.A.L.T. strategy can help.
H.A.L.T. is a reminder to pause (“halt”) and check in with ourselves:
- H – Hungry
- A – Angry or Anxious
- L – Lonely
- T – Tired (or Thirsty)
The way we think, feel, and act can be signals of what we need. For example, if you notice you’re irritable, having trouble concentrating, your stomach is growling, and your energy is low—it’s likely your body is telling you, “I’m hungry!”
The key is to reflect on how your body shows each of these H.A.L.T. states. Everyone’s signals look a little different.
- Reflecting: Taking a moment to look back on how you felt in a certain situation.
- Processing: Making sense of what you’re feeling and why, so you can decide what to do next.
These small moments of self-awareness can be powerful. They help us respond to our needs instead of ignoring them, and over time, they strengthen our mental health.
So, as we continue the conversation about truly answering “How are you?”—don’t forget to check in with your body, too. Sometimes the path to feeling better starts with a snack, a walk, a conversation, or a good night’s rest.
Resources:
Resilience Skill Sheet: H.A.L.T Reflecting and H.A.L.T Processing
Additional Resource: H.A.L.T: Self-Care Technique