Most of us have strategies for taking care of our physical health. For example, most of us brush our teeth, feed ourselves, and sleep regularly. We reach out to our doctor about pains or concerns, and we manage treatment or preventive measures related to any ongoing problems with prescriptions, over-the-counter treatments, or through daily activities like stretching. We need to do the same with our mental health.
Below you will find five simple tips to show your mental self-care, some love, and gratitude:
Eat Well
There are strong links between what we eat and how we feel; for example, caffeine and sugar can have an immediate effect. But food can also have a long-lasting effect on your mental health. Your brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well, just like the other organs in your body. A diet that's good for your physical health is also good for your mental health.
Talk About It
Although it's not always easy, talking about your feelings can help you maintain good mental health. Not only can it help you deal with and work through your mental burdens, but it can help you feel supported and connect with others.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Our bodies need 7-9 hours of sleep. Sleep helps to regulate the chemicals in our brain that transmit information. These chemicals are important in managing our moods and emotions. If we don't get enough sleep, we can start to feel depressed or anxious.
Connect with Others and Be Social
Make an effort to maintain good relationships and talk to people whenever you get the chance. Having friends is important not just for your self-esteem but also for providing support when you're not feeling too great. Research has found that talking to others for just ten minutes can improve memory and test scores!
Be Physically Active
Being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness. Evidence also shows it can also improve your mental wellbeing by raising your self-esteem, helping you to set goals or challenges and achieve them, and causing chemical changes in your brain which can help to positively change your mood.
