3 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Mental Health
Improving mental health is a complex and multifaceted process, but the good news is there are several research-backed strategies that may be beneficial. Here are some evidence-based ways to boost mental well-being.
Prioritize the Basics: Sleep, Nutrition, and Movement
Often in both reducing & preventing mental health concerns, prioritizing sleep, balanced nutrition and movement are essential in establishing a solid foundation for good mental health.
Although it may seem basic and they’re no substitute for working with a professional, research consistently highlights their importance in supporting brain function, mood regulation, and stress reduction.
So, start with the basics.
What’s your sleep schedule like? Does it involve a calming bedtime routine and a comfortable sleep environment? Are you nourishing your body? And are you moving daily? Find an activity you enjoy, whether it's a brisk walk, a swim, or a workout, you may be surprised the big impacts these small adjustments may make to your life.
Pursue Joyful Moments
Meaningful activities are a key ingredient for mental well-being. Their the activities that align with your values, ignite your passion, and bring you genuine joy.
When you immerse yourself in what truly matters to you, stress takes a backseat. You'll discover balance, relaxation, and a resilience that helps you handle whatever comes your way.
So, what are the little things that bring you joy? They look different for everybody, and can be big (like pursuing a meaningful career) or small, everyday (and seemingly mundane) things that make you smile.
Maybe it’s that hobby you’ve been neglecting, volunteering, cooking your favourite meal, catching up with a dear friend, or even dancing to the cheesiest song on your “guilty pleasures” playlist.
Embrace those moments of bliss & make them a priority in your daily life. You deserve it!
Embrace Self-Compassion
Have you ever found yourself losing your temper towards… yourself?
It’s easy to be tough on yourself—we tend to do it much more than we realize. But blaming & berating yourself over actions you regret or wish you had done differently is neither productive nor beneficial in any way.
Instead, try practicing self-compassion— an act of goodwill towards yourself.
It’s a process of embracing ourselves with forgiveness, kindness and care when situations may be less than optimal.
So, allow yourself to make mistakes! Be gentle with yourself and remember, imperfection is universal and you are not alone in navigating life’s challenges.
If you find yourself struggling with this, take a moment to reflect on this question: “If my best friend was going through this situation, what would I say to them?”
Let that guide you towards a more compassionate approach. You deserve love, understanding, and support, just like anyone else!
