There is no denying that our everyday life and relationship affect our mental health- either positively or negatively. Repeating the whole schedule day by day can sometimes feel lonely and stressful. Do you know there are simple ways you can take care of your mental health without jeopardizing your work-life and relationships? But before we dive into how to take care of your mind let’s understand what healthy mental health looks like.
What does good mental health look like?
It is a state of positive mind and body that gives one the safety to cope and deal with the connections of people, life, and the environment. While good mental health does not only include being free from mental illness, it is personal to each individual.
So why is good mental health important?
- Wellbeing
Your mental health affects your overall physical well-being. These concepts are closely tied to each other. Weak and poor mental health will ultimately affect your physical well-being later on.
- Relationships
Good mental health will help you cope better with your relationships. Studies have shown that good mental health makes you happier and lengthens your life span.
With that said, here are some simple ways to care for your mental health.
Recognize the signs of poor mental health
One of the best ways to help your mental health is to recognize the signs. Of course, we all have our bad days, but you know yourself best. If you find yourself being moodier than you normally would, it’s high time you get your mental health checked. Monitor your actions and feelings and know when it’s time to seek help.
Seek help when necessary
Another great step to caring for your mental health is to seek help when you need it. If you know you are struggling, you should talk to someone. It can either be a loved one or a doctor. Talking with someone can help you deal with your problems faster.
Take care of your physical health
Your physical and mental health share close ties. One can affect the other greatly. Studies have shown that being physically active can affect your mental health positively. Regular exercise can help improve your mood, alleviate stress, and decrease your chance of being depressed by 20%.
Try meditation and relaxation
Do you enjoy yoga or other outdoor activities? Meditation is known to help calm your mind and body. This can help reduce stress and make you feel better. You can also relax with your favorite activity: hiking, camping, picnics, and even mountaineering. It is a great way to distract yourself from problems and enjoy the moment with friends and family.
Work on your sleep pattern
Studies have shown that people with bad sleep patterns are likely to develop mental illnesses. Irrespective of your work schedule and daily activities, you should try to get good sleep every day. A good night’s rest of 7-8 hours will give you the energy and strength you need to get through the day.