Recently, mental health problems have been on the rise. Although many people attest this to the increased openness surrounding mental wellbeing, others have noted that this is an epidemic that doesn’t show any signs of stopping. However, that doesn’t mean there is no hope. With so many people being more open about their struggles, it means more tips are flying around, which people can use to benefit their own mental health. Whether you suffer from a diagnosed condition or are hoping to keep your mind in top shape, it’s a great idea to follow some essential tips. If you follow these, they will prepare you better for the times you may feel bad, and they will also help you to grow your confidence and self-worth as you build your better life.
Build a strong network
When people are in a low place, it can be easy to shut yourself off from everyone else. The key to stopping this lonely feeling is to surround yourself with a strong support network when you feel more yourself. Building lasting friendships and spending time with your family means they will be aware of how your mind can switch into dark places. Even if you try to push them away during these times, it is likely that they will always be there to help you up, just remember never to beafraid of speaking up.
Have good health insurance
If you are in a position where you don’t have your family close by, and you find it hard to make new friends, you can always rely on a trusted psychiatrist to be there for you and teach you skills to combat bad days. Ideally, you should look for a health insurance policy that covers this, so that you aren’t spending lots of money that you might not have. Choosing a Medigap policy might be another thing you are overwhelmed by, but there is a lot of information online to help. Not only is it more than worth it int he long run, but it will also ensure your physical health is looked after too.
Exercise more
The key to having a healthy body is to stick to a regular exercise routine, but it can also do immeasurable good for your mind. In fact, there have been many studies to show how exercise is linked to a reduction in depressive tendencies, stress, and anxiety. Thisis partly because it releases endorphins into your brain, which can make you feel happy for a while after exercising. It also helps you sleep better at night, which can help with any fatigue or insomnia you may be experiencing. If you struggle with your body image, exercise is one of the best habits to start, as it will build your confidence about the way you look and have you feeling like your healthiest self.
Eat a balanced diet
A balanced diet always goes hand in hand with exercising regularly. Although it’s always a good idea to indulge in your favorite foods sometimes, it’s best to stick to a diet which is rich in fruit, vegetables, non-refined carbohydrates, and lean meats. However, such a diet also means avoiding food and drink that is harmful to you. It includes an excess of alcohol, caffeine, and sugar. Caffeine may make you feel on top of the world when you first have it, but it has been linked to panic attacks and anxiety if you have too much. Instead, try and lower your intake by drinking green tea. It is important to note that if you are a vegetarian or a vegan, you will lack your intake of Vitamin B12. This deficiency can lead to depression, so it’s recommended to take supplements along with your intake of water each day.
Practice self-care
Self-care is a new practice that has emerged, although its roots can be found thousands of years ago when mental wellbeing was prioritized in aromatherapy practices. Essentially, it means doing what you love to make yourself feel better. It can include watching your favorite programme, reading a good book, or meeting with friends for coffee. When you don’t feel in top form, this can act as a real comfort while you ride out the low feelings, and is a reminder that everything will improve soon.
Spend time outdoors
When you are feeling low, being outside is the last thing your brain can fathom, butif you manage to make the step even into your yard, you will start to feel the benefits that the great outdoors can bring. As a natural stress reducer, ecotherapy has also shown that it can help those who suffer frommore severe mental health problems. Mostly, this is to do with the peace and the beauty you find in the natural world, which comes as a welcome distraction. Every day, try to go on a short walk in your local park or take a weekend trip to an area of outstanding natural beauty. If you don’t feel up to it on bad days, make sure you open your windows, and that your home is scatteredin houseplants.
Switch off
A lot of what is causing people to struggle recently is spending too much time online. Though the internet has brought some amazing positives to peoples’ lives, social media has started to exacerbate issues such as Body Dysmorphia in teenagers and young adults. As with everything, moderation is key. If you feel as though you have spent too much time on your device, switch it off and hide it away for a few hours to avoid temptation.
Try meditation
Switching off is something that can also lead to better sleep, but you can go one step further and use this time for meditation. Combining this with yoga will give you the great benefits of both, and will also count as your exercise for the day. In the morning, and just before bed, make a few minutes free for you to meditate in with a specialized app. Here, you can reconnect with the world and face negative emotions in a safe place.