Improving your mental health and wellbeing is possible even if you’re living with a mental illness. Good mental health and well being allows you to feel great about yourself, find a sense of purpose, and build the capacity to cope with the ups and downs of daily life.
To give you a good head start, we’ve curated a list of the 6 best ways you can improve your mental health and well being so you can live your best life.
1. Make Social Connections
Connecting with other people helps to beat loneliness, boost your mood, and give you a greater sense of belonging. That said, it’s best to find people you can trust who offer you a safe space to openly share what you’re going through.
By prioritizing social connections, you not only gain emotional support but also find opportunities to help others which can build your self-esteem. Schedule things like a playdate with your child, a coffee with your colleague, or FaceTime with a family member or friend who lives far from you.
2. Stay Physically Active
Staying physically active is as good for your mental health as it is for your body. Maintaining a steady activity routine reduces anxiety and depression and causes positive chemical changes in the brain that lead to reduced stress levels, improved self-esteem, and cognitive function. Try fun activities like running, cycling, dancing, or gardening.
3. Embrace Mindfulness
Mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment. Reconnecting yourself to where you are in this moment and looking at the positive things as you go about your day helps you to replace any negative swirling thoughts that bring you anxiety and stress. Try mindful listening and walking exercises, pet-sitting, breathing exercises, or meditation and enjoy improved mental health and well being.
4. Improve Your Diet and Sleep Pattern
Eat brain-healthy foods that help regulate your mood like whole grains, nuts, seeds, proteins including legumes and omega-3-rich fish, fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water. To improve your sleep, establish a routine, relax by taking away all your devices hours before you sleep, and make your sleeping area more comfortable — whether that’s keeping your room dark or dimly lit. But remember not to put too much pressure on yourself and focus on finding the diet and sleeping pattern that works best for you.
5. Learn a New Skill
Research has established a connection between learning a new skill and improved mental health and wellbeing. Learning a new language, taking up a new sport, or working on a DIY project helps to relieve stress, increase confidence, and maintain mental stability.
6. Get Professional Help When You Need It
If you can’t cope with a certain stressful situation, reach out for professional help. Sometimes, getting the support you need goes a long way in helping you attain good mental health and long term wellbeing.
Contact B.E.S.T for Quality Mental Health Services
For mental health services you can depend on to maintain optimum mental health and wellbeing, talk to our team at Behavioral Enhancement Services & Treatment. Our specialists are ready to provide the professional support you need to achieve your mental health goals. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.