Wellness Wednesday #1: How to Improve Your Mental Health

Wellness Wednesday is your weekly dose of positivity and practical steps to enhance your life. Each week I share one small action you can take to help improve your life, complete with a Mini Assignment to help you stay on track!

Today, let’s explore the importance of mental wellness and discover simple ways to uplift your spirits.

We all understand the significance of mental health, yet it often takes a back seat in our busy lives. It’s time to change that perspective. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly one in five adults in the United States faces a mental illness each year. Even more striking, almost 50% of teens experience some form of mental disorder.

When it comes to our kids, we prioritize their needs, but what about us—parents and caregivers? It’s crucial to look after our mental wellness, not just for ourselves but for the well-being of our children.

Think of it this way: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of ourselves first allows us to be present for our children and support their journey to better mental health.

Now, let’s demystify the terms. Mental health encompasses our overall well-being, while mental wellness is our proactive pursuit of a balanced, healthy, and connected life. Mental illness is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, and requires treatment. It’s essential to pay attention to your mental health and seek help if needed. Look out for signs such as changes in habits, withdrawal, or extreme mood swings.

So let’s jump in and look at my top tips to boost your mental wellness.

10 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health

There are many things you can do to improve your mental health. Here are some tips:

1. Get Regular Exercise. Exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, including lower stress levels, improved sleep quality, better self-esteem, and overall improved satisfaction with life. In addition, scientific studies show that even taking a 5- or 10-minute walk in the middle of the day can reduce anxiety and help you lose weight.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet. Eating nutritious food helps your body to function at its best. A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It will also help to drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks.
3. Prioritize Sleep. Most adults need around eight hours of sleep per night. Sleep is crucial for mental health. With a good night’s sleep, your mood improves, your body recovers from the day’s stresses, and your energy levels increase to help you tackle the day ahead.
4. Engage in hobbies. Activities such as reading, listening to music, playing sports, or spending time outdoors can all help improve your mood and mental state. They can also help reduce stress and increase your overall sense of well-being.
5. Surround Yourself with Supportive People. Spend time with people who uplift you and support you. These people can provide positive reinforcement and help you stay on track when things get tough.
6. Embrace the Outdoors. Several studies show the positive impact nature has on stress levels and happiness. So take a break from your screen, step outside, and get some fresh air!
7. Enjoy the Music you Love. Music can energize and motivate you, help you focus, and improve your mood. It can also provide a much-needed distraction from intrusive thoughts or worries.
8. Establish Routines. A routine can help ground you and provide a sense of normalcy, even when everything else feels chaotic. For example, a simple morning routine, such as stretching to ease into the day and reading a list of affirmations, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
9. Practice Self-Care. Self-care is anything that makes you feel good—both physically and mentally. It may take time to find what works best for you, but think beyond home spa treatments … what makes you smile or laugh? Do more of that!
10. Set Boundaries. Learn to say “no” and be in charge of your time and energy. If you struggle with this, practice! Recall a scenario where you have difficulty and play out a new ending where you confidently and simply say, “No, thanks, I’m good!”

Conclusion

Taking care of your mental wellness is an ongoing journey, but let today be the start of that journey. By making small changes to improve your mood and overall health you’re investing in your future mental wellbeing.

Start small, make gradual changes, and remember—it’s okay to seek help. Check our Resources to find 24-hour, free, and confidential support. Your well-being matters!

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