Most of us spend more time taking care of
our physical health than our mental health, even though the two go hand in
hand. Maintaining good physical and mental health is key
to living a full and productive life. Try some
or all of the ten tips
below to help improve your mental health, and ultimately your life, every day.
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1. Value Yourself.
Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid
self-criticism. Make time for your hobbies and favorite projects,
or broaden your horizons. Do a daily crossword puzzle, plant a
garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument or become fluent
in another language.
2. Take Care of Your Body.
Taking care of
yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to eat
nutritious meals, avoid cigarettes, drink plenty of water, get enough
sleep and EXERCISE. In fact, exercise has been shown to help
decrease depression and anxiety, and improve people's moods.
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3. Surround Yourself with
Good People.
People with
strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those
who lack a supportive network. Make plans with supportive family
members and friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new
people such as a club, class or support group.
4. Give of Yourself.
Volunteer
your time and energy to help someone else. You'll feel good about
doing something tangible to help someone on need - and it's
a great way
to meet new people.
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5. Learn How to
Deal with Stress. Like
it or not, stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills.
Do Tai chi, exercise, take a nature walk, play with your pet or try
journal writing as a stress-reducer. Also, remember to smile and
see the humor in life. Research shows that laughter can boost your
immune system, ease pain relax your body and reduce stress.
6. Quiet Your Mind.
Try meditating or reaching out spiritually through prayer.
Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve your state of mind and
outlook on life. In fact, research shows that meditation may help
you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy.
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7. Set Realistic Goals.
Decide what you want to achieve professionally or
personally, and write down the steps you need to realize your goals.
Aim high, but be realistic an don't over schedule. You'll enjoy a
tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as you progress toward
your goal.
8. Break Up the Monotony.
Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of
security and safety, a little change of pace can help perk up a tedious
schedule. Alter your jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk
in a different park, hang some new pictures, or try a new restaurant. |
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The mental health tips and other information on this page were obtained
from, and copyrighted and published by,
Mental Health America
www.mentalhealthamerica.net,
no part of this document may be
reproduced without written consent.
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9. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol.
Keep alcohol use
to a minimum and avoid drugs. Substance abuse is one of society's
biggest health concerns. Sometimes people use alcohol or other
drugs to "self-medicate" the symptoms of a mental disorder, but in
reality, alcohol and drugs only aggravate mental illness.
10. Get Help When You Need It. Seeking help is a sign of
strength - not a weakness, and it is important to remember that
treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can
recover from mental illness and substance abuse disorders, and lead
full, productive lives.
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