How to Improve Mental Health Starting Today
By Genevieve Cunningham
Good mental health is a very important aspect of a happy life. When mental health suffers, everything in our life suffers. For the most part, we know what to do in order to protect our mental wellness. We know about signs of distress. We know about therapists and counselors. We know that we can ask for medication when we think that we need it. But sometimes, taking care of mental health is a lot easier. It's not so much these big moments in your life, but rather your habits that you participate in every single day. If you're interested in improving your mental health a little at a time every day, take a look at these tips.
Allow Yourself Some Quiet Time
Everyone needs some time to themselves. They need to turn off the noise of work and family and friends and just relax. If you want to improve your mental health on a daily basis, then this quiet time should be a part of your daily routine. Many people find that just before bed is a good time to get some quiet time, but if that doesn't work for you, first thing in the morning or just after work are also good times to unwind. Make this time important, and your mental health is more likely to improve.
Unplug
We are so plugged in. We are more connected to people across the country or across the world than we are to the people around us. This can be good for research and learning, but it's not good for our mental health. You need time every single day where you are completely unplugged. Don't read emails. Don't answer text messages. Don't browse social media. Sit outside and soak in the sun or participate in one of your favorite hobbies. This disconnection is incredibly good for our current well-being as well as for our mental health in the future.
Spend Time Outdoors
Nature is therapeutic. Research has suggested time and again that regular time spent outside is a huge indicator of good mental health. Is it a cure-all? Not at all. But it can significantly lower stress and ease you toward mental wellness. If you have space at your own home, just get outside after work. If you don't have access to the great outdoors at home, then make a stop at the park or find a trail to enjoy a nice walk.
Your daily habits can significantly impact your overall mental health. But luckily, your habits are actually something that you have control over. Add these simple habits to your daily routine, and you may be able to protect and enhance your mental health now and in the future.
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