Mental illness affects over 40 million Americans in a given year, with 20% of adults experiencing a mental health disorder in their lifetime.
There’s no doubt that mental health is important, even at the end of the world. Mental health problems and other stressors can worsen outside of the norm, especially if you’re trying to adapt to the new world around you.
Read on for some tips on how you can try to lift your mental health today!
1. Identify & Express Self-Affirmations
Boosting your mental health can be simple and effective. Identifying and expressing self-affirmations daily can be a great way to build self-worth, positivity, and self-care. Self-affirmations can be anything from powerful statements or words to motivational quotes. Getting into the habit of saying these affirmations every day can help build mental resilience, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health.
Additionally, start to become aware of your negative thought patterns, and replace them with positive thoughts. Take a minute each morning to practice mindful breathing. This can help clear your head and prepare you for the day.
2. Taking Time for Self-Care
Taking time for self-care is one of the best things you can do for your mental health in the long run. Doing something just for yourself can help you recharge and can give you the energy to tackle other aspects of your life such as work or relationships.
Today, you can practice giving yourself some much-needed attention by doing something that brings you joy. Scheduling two mental health days to yourself a month can be helpful; make sure to unplug from work, put away your phone, and make time for things you love.
It could be going for a walk, reading a book, spending quality time with friends or family, painting, or anything else you find relaxing.
Setting aside “me-time” to practice mindfulness activities can add years to your life, as it can help to decrease the production of the stress hormone cortisol, thus giving your body and mind a break from the daily pressures of the outside world.
3. Connecting with Loved Ones
Make time today to call, text, or video chat with a family member or close friend. Ask them how they are doing, and share what’s going on in your life and how you feel.
Alternatively, arrange to connect with someone in person, depending on restrictions in your area. Sharing stories and experiences, expressing gratitude for their support, and simply spending quality time together can greatly impact your mental well-being.
Taking small steps every day to nurture your relationships will help to build and strengthen these ties over time. It can give you a sense of connectedness and camaraderie under challenging times.
4. Eating Nutrient-Dense Foods
Eating nutrient-dense foods helps to increase your energy levels, sharpen your focus and concentration, and enhance your overall well-being. Here are some things you can try today to boost your mental health with nutrient-dense foods: start your day with a nutrient-dense breakfast, such as oatmeal with nuts and fruit, a smoothie, or a vegetable omelet; for lunch, try a salad with nuts and seeds; for dinner, try incorporating lean proteins like chicken or fish with vegetables; and for snacks, fuel your body with nutrient-dense options such as fruits, nuts and seeds, and vegetables.
5. Start a Gratitude Journal
Every day, take a few moments to write down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be huge- even the simple things, like a cup of coffee, a sunny day, or getting a good night’s sleep count. Taking a few moments each day to appreciate the smaller moments in life can help reduce stress and anxiety and help us approach difficult tasks in a more positive mood.
6. Pick Up a Hobby to Express Yourself
Expressing yourself through a hobby is one of the best things you can do to manage stress and clear your mind. Some hobby ideas you could try today might be painting, writing, playing an instrument, learning a new language, knitting, gardening, etc.
Taking your mind off the stresses of everyday life and focusing on creating something can reduce stress and anxiety ring can improve your mood and elevate your overall sense of well-being. It can also help you make better decisions and build new relationships with others.
However, it is important to find a hobby that you are passionate about and make sure the activity provides an outlet for your emotions.
7. Spend Time in Nature
A few things you can try today to make a positive impact on your well-being include: taking a hike in a local park or forest area, heading to the beach or lake shore to take a walk and enjoy the calming sound of the water, or finding a peaceful spot in your backyard or a nearby garden to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Even if you don’t have the time or access to go somewhere to get away, spending a few moments outside with your eyes closed can boost your mental well-being. Even if it’s cloudy or you’re stuck indoors, taking just fifteen minutes to sit outside while enjoying the sunshine can help to uplift your mood. And if you have a pet, take them out for an extra long walk and appreciate the fresh air!
8. Exercise for Mental Health Benefits
It has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, help you relax, and increase self-esteem. It can provide an opportunity to escape negative thoughts and feelings. It provides endorphins that can lead to a happier and healthier mood and outlook.
Some things you can try today to boost your mental health through exercise include running or walking, taking a yoga class, swimming, jumping rope, and playing a sport. Even if you have limited time or energy, you can still find time to move your body, even for a few minutes.
Exercise can help you break out of negative cycles and feel more connected to your body, environment, and mental health.
Mental health is something we should all take seriously. Today, take some time for yourself and try something new. Watch a funny movie, go for a walk, or do something creative.
There are plenty of ways to boost your mental health and each method offers something a little different. Please don’t wait until it’s too late. Start improving your mental health today!
If you liked this post, then please take a look at our other articles about health.
