The Psychology of Values: Unlocking Better Mental Health
- Deborah Marks
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
Every person has a unique set of values that guide their choices, shape their relationships, and influence their sense of purpose. These values are not just abstract beliefs; they serve as the foundation of our wellbeing. When our daily lives align with what we value most, we tend to feel more balanced, fulfilled, and mentally healthy. When there is a disconnect, however, stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction often arise.
Why Personal Values Matter
Personal values are the deeply held principles that define what is most important to us. They might include honesty, family, freedom, growth, compassion, or achievement. Living in accordance with these values provides clarity and direction, which helps us navigate difficult decisions and life challenges.
When your actions and choices reflect your values, you are more likely to experience:
Greater resilience in the face of stress
A stronger sense of self-worth
More meaningful relationships
Increased motivation and satisfaction in work and personal life
On the other hand, ignoring or compromising your values can contribute to feelings of emptiness, conflict, and burnout. For example, if you value connection but find yourself in isolating work environments, you may feel drained and unhappy, even if everything looks “successful” on the surface.
The Link Between Values and Mental Health
Research shows that people who understand and live by their values often experience lower levels of anxiety and depression. This is because values act like an anchor, providing stability during uncertain times. They help us focus on what really matters, rather than getting lost in societal pressures or the expectations of others.
Therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) often use values exploration to help clients identify what drives them. Once you are clear on your values, it becomes easier to make choices that foster mental health and reduce inner conflict.
Exploring Your Own Values
Reflecting on your values is a powerful exercise. Ask yourself:
When do I feel most alive and fulfilled?
Which moments in my life have felt most meaningful?
What qualities in others inspire me?
The answers often point to your core values. Once identified, you can start adjusting your daily actions and decisions to be more aligned with what is important to you.
To make this journey more practical, I’ve included a downloadable worksheet designed to guide you step by step in discovering your core values. This simple yet powerful activity will help you reflect, clarify what matters most, and begin aligning your daily choices with your personal values.
Download the PDF here:
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Taking the Next Step
If you have been feeling stuck, conflicted, or disconnected, it may be that your life is not reflecting your true values. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these values and discover practical steps to bring more alignment into your life. This process often leads to greater resilience, improved relationships, and a stronger sense of identity.
At Hope Prevails on the Gold Coast, I work with individuals to uncover and live by their personal values as a way of improving mental health and overall wellbeing. If you would like support in clarifying your values and creating a life that reflects them, reach out today. Together, we can take steps toward a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.
Contact Hope Prevails to book your session.
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