Mental well-being in general comprises your self-esteem, the quality of your relationships, and your ability for emotion regulation and problem-solving.
Anyone can have mental or emotional health issues, and many of us will throughout our lifetimes.
These suggestions can improve your mood, make you more resilient, and help you live more fully.
- Prioritize face-to-face interactions and other forms of social interaction.
Although phone calls and social media have their uses, nothing beats the stress-relieving and mood-enhancing benefits of spending quality face-to-face time with others.
- Keep moving.
Being physically active benefits the brain just as much as the body. Regular physical activity or exercise can significantly improve your mental and emotional well-being, reduce stress, enhance memory, and enhance sleep.
- Speak with someone.
Speak to a welcoming person. One of the best methods to relax and de-stress is through face-to-face social engagement with a caring individual.
- Invoke your senses
Do you find it relaxing to listen to uplifting music? Does squeezing a stress ball make you feel more grounded? What about going for a stroll and taking in the sights and sounds ? Everyone reacts to sensory input slightly differently, so try different things to see what suits you the best.
- Start a meditation routine.
Deep breathing, yoga, mindfulness, and meditation can all help lower overall stress levels.
- Prioritize downtime and reflection.
An essential for emotional and mental wellness is leisure time. As you go about your day, take some time to unwind, reflect, and focus on the good things, even the little things. If you can, put them in writing because it’s easy to forget. If your mood needs a lift later, you can think back on them.
- Consume brain-healthy foods to promote good mental health.
Fatty fish high in omega-3s, nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews, and peanuts), avocados, beans, leafy greens (spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts), and fresh fruit, such as blueberries, are foods that help enhance your mood.
- Get enough sleep.
One strategy to improve sleep is to avoid screen stimulation for two hours prior to bedtime. This includes TV, phones, tablets, and computers.
- Look for meaning and purpose
Everyone experiences this differently. Consider one of the following options:
- Work at something that makes you feel helpful.
- Spend quality time and money on your relationships with the individuals that are important to you.
- Being a volunteer can improve your life and make you happier.
- Provide for others, which may be as demanding and fulfilling as it is gratifying.
- If necessary, get assistance.
There are numerous services and resources available to you if you or a loved one needs support.
