Today is World Mental Health Day and nearly one in five people around you might be suffering from mental health according to stats, and you could be one of them. There are many ways to help the people around you but change starts from within so, you need to take care of yourself first. Following are a few tips to avoid all the negativity in life and take care of your mental health.
Value yourself:
Treat yourself with kindness and respect and avoid self-criticism. Make time for your hobbies and favourite projects. Do a daily crossword puzzle, plant a garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument, or become fluent in another language.
Take care of your body:
Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to:
1. Eat nutritious meals
2. Avoid smoking and vaping
3. Drink plenty of water
4. Exercise, which helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods
5. Get enough sleep, researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to a high rate of depression in college students.
Surround yourself with good people:
People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network. Make plans with supportive family members and friends or seek out activities where you can meet new people, such as a club, class or support group.
Give yourself:
Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else. You'll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need and it's a great way to meet new people.
Learn how to deal with stress:
Like it or not, stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills: Try One-Minute Stress Strategies, do Tai Chi, exercise, take a walk, play with your pet or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Also, remember to smile and see the humour in life. Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body and reduce stress.
Quiet your mind:
Try meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve your state of mind and outlook on life. In fact, research shows that meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy.
Set realistic goals:
Decide what you want to achieve academically, professionally, and personally, and write down the steps you need to realize your goals. Aim high but be realistic and don't over-schedule. You'll enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you progress toward your goal.
Break up the monotony:
Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. Alter your jogging route, plan a road trip, take a walk in a different park, hang some new pictures, or try a new restaurant.
Get help when you need it:
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And it is important to remember that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives.
Try our tips and share them with your friends and family so they can also take advantage from them.