Tips for Improved Mental Health such as Be Good to Yourself, Physical Wellness and much more
Be Good to Yourself
Mentally healthy people value themselves and treat themselves with kindness. This week, try eliminating negative self-criticism and making time for your favorite hobbies and projects. Broaden your horizons by trying something new like planting a garden, learning a language, or going to a dance class. By treating yourself with respect, you will become happier and more balanced.
Try Physical Wellness
It is no secret that there is a direct link between physical and mental health. Taking care of your body can help your mind. Some ways you can improve physical fitness are eating nutritious meals, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep. Exercise is also known to decrease depression and anxiety, as well as improve mood.
Surround Yourself with People who Spark Joy
People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network. This week, try surrounding yourself only with people who make you happy. Make plans with friends and family members who support and uplift you. Or, try meeting new people at places like a club or a support group.
Serve Your Community
People who give themselves to their communities are likely to be happier and better-adjusted. Try volunteering your time and energy to help those in need. You will feel happy and fulfilled to have benefited your community, and you might meet new people along the way!
Talk About It
Get help when you need it. Seeking aid is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Treatment is effective, and people who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and lead full, rewarding lives. If you don’t have the means to see a counselor, speak to a trusted friend, teacher, or family member. You can also try to seek out resources at your school or place of work.
Track Gratitude and Achievement
Appreciate yourself to the fullest by journaling the things you have accomplished. Additionally, count your blessings by recording the things in your life for which you are thankful. Try starting with three things you were grateful for and three things you were able to accomplish each day. If you want to record these digitally, check out the free apps Happier and Attitudes of Gratitude Journal.
Go Off the Grid
Sometimes, it can be helpful to leave your phone at home and live a day free from constant texts, emails, and other interruptions. Try having a genuine experience and being present in the moment. Spend some quality face-to-face time with those you love without your smartphone getting in the way.
Hang Out with a Furry Friend
Research shows that time with animals lowers cortisol, a stress hormone, and boosts oxytocin, which stimulates feelings of happiness. If you don’t have a pet, hang out with a friend who does or volunteer at a shelter.
Appreciate Nature
As simple as it may seem, going for as short as a thirty minute walk in the woods can do wonders for mental health. Research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression, and boost well-being. Whether a stroll through the park, a hike in the woods, or camping in your backyard, try spending some time outside this week!
Find the Silver Linings
As much as we would like to hope otherwise, stress is inevitable. Bad things are bound to happen, but mentally resilient people will take the moments that they are totally overwhelmed and try to find the good in them. In many cases, it’s all about how you view the situation.
By: Jessica Hutt