Mental health is an issue that affects us all, yet its importance is often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We often find ourselves neglecting the basics of our lives, such as health, family, friends, and community, resulting in an unhealthy dysregulation of our lives. It is important to remember that mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can be prevented by focusing on the aspects of your life that are within your control. By taking steps to be proactive in managing mental health, you can create a stronger foundation for your mental well-being.
Sleep is Vital to Your Well-being
Experts agree that protecting our sleep is one of the most important steps we can take when it comes to managing our mental health. A lack of quality sleep can lead to a variety of mental health issues, while good sleep hygiene helps to foster resilience and prevent negative thinking. The American Medical Association and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine have even warned of the serious health risks associated with adolescent sleep deprivation. It’s important to remember that our brains will lock into patterns, even unhealthy ones if they are repeated. Therefore, it’s important to establish a regular sleep routine in order to maintain our mental health. Creating consistent and healthy habits when it comes to sleep is key for both our physical and mental well-being.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Maintaining a balanced diet can help regulate our moods throughout the day. Eating too many carbohydrates can lead to a crash that can cause irritability and lack of concentration, which may be signs of depression. To stay healthy and have a good day, we should strive to include proteins, healthy non-saturated fats, fiber, and some simple carbohydrates in our meals. Eating in moderation is key to good mental health.
Get Regular Exercise
We all have busy lives, but making the time to get regular exercise is essential. The recommended amount of weekly exercise for adults is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, which comes out to about 20 minutes per day. Getting enough exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep, are all essential components of a healthy lifestyle that will benefit both mental and physical health. So set aside some time for yourself and get moving!
Get Involved in Your Community
Taking part in your local community can be a fantastic way to improve mental health. Studies funded by Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute have underlined the power of joining forces with like-minded people to boost self-esteem. Volunteering in the community, simply going out and socializing, or finding a place of worship can all be fun and meaningful ways to connect with others. Seeing we’re not alone and talking about issues surrounding dysphoria and tension can be incredibly cathartic.
Find a Hobby
Finding an enjoyable activity such as crafting, boxing, book clubs, or gardening can be an effective way to manage mental health. This is because partaking in an activity that brings us pleasure and joy has a positive physical effect on the brain, releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, each of which helps to fight depression and anxiety. Additionally, being around other people and socializing can be a great way to combat the onset of depression and anxiety, as isolation can be a trigger for both.