Mental Health is just as important to manage as physical health (although they are not always treated equally). We've researched 10 ways to improve your mental health wellness while dealing with life's daily hassles.
1. Keep your body moving
Whether it's a leisurely walk, a hike, or hitting the gym, staying active is a must. First off, it naturally boosts our self-esteem and confidence BUT it also has a biological change on our brain! That "feel-good" state that you feel after a workout isn't just in your head...it's science. After an aerobic exercise, our brains release a neurotransmitter called endorphins or "the feel-good neurotransmitter." Endorphins help to regulate moods, improve sleep, and decrease stress. Just one of many reasons to exercise!
2. Stay Social
I get it, after a long day of work or running errands, the last thing you want to do is meet up with friends. However, isolation increases and creates a lot of mental health symptoms. Call a friend, go grab dinner, or invite someone over; emotional support can boost your mental health by decreasing stress, increasing relationships, and taking us outside of our comfort zones. So, ditch the doom scrolling and pause the series you're binging; your mind (and body) will thank you later.
3. Contribute to a Cause
Being kind has multiple benefits, but maybe you didn't realize how it can actually improve your mental health. By helping someone else you help make their day and you are increasing your confidence and happiness. You also have an opportunity to expand your social circle. Have you ever heard of "paying it forward?" By doing an act of kindness, you might encourage someone else to do the same! Smiles are contagious (and free), so what are you waiting for?
4. Mindfulness
Do you ever feel like your thoughts are on a conveyor belt...like your mind just keeps running and new thoughts keep coming and you can't keep up? Mindfulness just might be what you need. Mindfulness is the act of being present, acknowledging when thoughts creep in, and being able to return to the present moment. Mindfulness comes in many forms: meditation, prayer, journaling, etc. There is even research that suggests that the gray matter in your amygdala (which plays a role in stress) shrinks and the activity of the pre-frontal cortex (which controls our decision-making and emotion regulation) increases (Harper, 2021).
5. Talk to a professional
It's not like it is in the movies... we won't make you lay down on a couch (although you can) and ask: "how does that make you feel?" There are so many therapeutic approaches and you might have to shop around, but therapy can be a great resource. According to the "American Psychiatry Association" around 75% of individuals who go to therapy benefit and show progress. Of course, to be successful and have the best possible outcome, people have to be open, willing, honest, and motivated.
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