Mental health issues, sadly, are something that are a part of everyone’s life in one way or another. Ignoring these issues will do nothing but make the problem at hand worse. Any progress is still progress! Here are 15 little ways to help keep your mental health up every day, you got this!
In today’s society, it’s hard to not get caught up with constantly being on our phones. This takes a serious toll on mental health, for Instagram is a false sense of reality. Reminder–no one’s life is perfect, even if it seems it on social media. Taking small breaks from social media will help you gain mental clarity and stay in the moment! This doesn’t mean delete your Instagram—just take a few days off!
As silly as this sounds–drinking water all day will give you energy and help your body in numerous ways. While in fits of depression, it can be hard to do tasks as small as just drinking water. Set yourself reminders on your phone or sticky notes with helpful reminders on your bedroom door. You got this! Make your water less boring by adding fresh fruits like lemon or lime to give extra flavor.
The one thing we all dread the most. Exercising to improve your mental health doesn’t have to be rigorous–start small with some yoga stretches. On top of dealing with the battle of struggling mental health, exercising is a daunting task and always feels unreachable. Just a few stretches or jumping jacks in the morning to get your blood flowing will give you a positive start to the day. Get that body moving!
While music is known to be an amazing reliever for anxious thoughts–sad music, however, might be triggering, if your mental health isn’t at its finest. The best thing to do is only put on music with a feel-good energy to it. Jazz music is always a good option. Play music that you associate happy times with.
An expressive way to let out built-up thoughts or a rush of emotions is to journal! Grab a notebook and fill the lines with words you don’t want circling in your head anymore. Buying colorful pens and markers to make doodling extra fun is always a great idea.
Another hands-on approach to bettering your mental health is through creating artwork. The best part about this is that it doesn’t have to be perfect. A few options of art projects could be making collages from old magazines, knitting, sewing a new top, or even simple drawings and paintings. Art is a fantastic way to ease your mind of negative thoughts and create beautiful and one of a kind. Let the creativity flow!
Having the task of having to make your bed while struggling with mental health, is another task that feels dauntless. However, one of the first steps to having mental health clarity is to have a dream living environment. Small steps like making your bed every morning is a big accomplishment. A clean living environment equals a happy mind. Be kind to yourself!
Resting is essential in order to take on the day. Getting the recommended amount of sleep as well as stopping to take a breather or nap when needed–you will find feeling better. Don’t be hard on yourself when you need to take a break. There is nothing wrong with taking a breather for a little bit throughout the day. Everyone needs their rest!
Try creating a new healthy habit with meditation. This can be a simple as a calm few moments when you wake up, or going for a drive and listening to music. Find calm within your chaos, and listen to what your body needs. This could be a fun activity to do with friends—join a yoga class and try something new!
Connecting with others can be difficult while dealing with mental health issues. The feeling of wanting to push away or disassociate can be plentiful. However, pushing yourself away from loved ones can sometimes make problems worse. Take time to send your friends a text and say hello, or give your aunt a call back and catch up on things. It is okay to let people love you!
Direct your sadness and anxiety into a positive outcome. Research volunteer opportunities in your community and lend a helping hand. This will help you get your mind off things and feel better about yourself—all while helping people in need.
Who were you before you were overcome with sadness and anxious thoughts? What did you enjoy doing the most? Perhaps revisiting this could be a positive thing—take the time to reflect on what you love to do & try and pick up the habit every now and then. You deserve to still have fun!
Eating healthy and balanced is a difficult task regardless of what’s going on in your mind. Find easy meals to prep and fresh ingredients, it can be a hassle. Take the time to plan out meals and healthy snacks to fill your body with the vitamins and energy that it needs to take on any task. Balanced meals are key to a healthy, happy mind.
Running away from your problems will never get them fixed. At the end of the day, accept what is happening and you will be able to move on. It is okay to feel everything your feeling. Emotions are valid. Take a deep breath and accept that this is okay.
Anxiety likes to play tricks on our minds, unfortunately. Look at your surroundings, and yourself and ask, “Is my anxiety lying to me?” The answer is most likely yes. You are in charge! Tell your brain this until it learns!
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