Accessible Wellness / Behavioral Health
When mental health makes meal prep hard, you’re not alone
For many of us, cooking is part of our daily routine. But when mental health symptoms show up, what might normally feel like a simple tasks, like preparing a meal, can feel overwhelming. And that’s okay. Everyone’s experience is different.
Changes in your mental health can affect your energy, motivation, focus, and even physical ability. Here’s how meal prep might look at different times:
1. Mild Symptoms
If you experience occasional anxiety or low mood, you may still be able to cook but might prefer simpler meals. Think quick, pre-cut veggies, or ready-to-eat meals that save time and energy.
2. Moderate Symptoms
With symptoms such as persistent sadness, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating, cooking and planning can feel like too much. Frozen meals, meal delivery services, or support from loved ones can make things easier.
3. Severe Symptoms
When symptoms are severe, such as major depression and panic attacks, cooking may not be possible at all. You might skip meals or eat whatever is handy, even if it’s not the healthiest. This is when support like meal drop-offs or help from a care team can make a big difference.
Supporting Someone Through This
Remember: struggling with meal prep is not a failure. It’s a sign that extra help may be needed. Small steps, like keeping healthy snacks on hand or batch-cooking on better days, can help. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Asking for help is always okay.
Visit our Behavioral Health page to see how we can help. If you are experiencing a crisis, call 988 for the mental health crisis line.