7 min read
Last updated 05/21/24
3 Simple Ways to Look After Your Mental Health
Marjorie Morrison
We all know life can get super busy, and it's easy to forget about taking care of our mental health. But keeping our mind healthy is just as important as keeping our body fit. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we sat down with Psych Hub co-founder Marjorie Morrison to get her insights on how we can look after our mental health - this month and beyond. Here are Marjorie’s three easy tips that anyone can follow to feel better mentally.
1. Make Time for Friends and Family
We're all wired to be around others. Connecting with friends or family makes us feel supported and less alone. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee with a friend, going for a walk, or just calling someone up for a chat, these little things make a big difference. They remind us that we've got people who care about us and make us happier overall.
Why It's Important
When we feel lonely or isolated, reaching out and connecting with others is super important. It shows we're brave enough to ask for the company and support we all need from time to time. Plus, hanging out or talking with loved ones can really lift our spirits.
2. Focus on the Good Stuff
Life has its ups and downs. It's okay to feel sad or upset sometimes, but remembering the good things in life is key. Being positive doesn’t mean ignoring the hard stuff. It means trying to keep a hopeful outlook even when things get tough.
Why It's Important
Thinking positively is actually good for your health. It can help you live longer, deal better with stress, and keep you healthier. Simply enjoying the moment or being thankful for the little things can change your mood and make life feel more worthwhile.
3. Don’t Forget to Eat Well, Move, and Rest
Our minds and bodies are linked. When we take care of our body, our mind feels better too. Eating healthy foods, drinking water, exercising, and getting enough sleep are super important.
Why It's Important
Healthy habits help control our mood, lower anxiety, boost our energy, and just make us feel better overall. Moving more and sleeping well are so often advised because they genuinely make a big difference in how we feel mentally.
Starting Off Easy
Picking just one of these tips to try can make a big difference. Everyone’s different, so finding what works best for you is what matters most. You can also try therapy, meditation apps, or learning from online videos if you need more support.
Taking care of your mental health isn't a luxury; it's essential. By adding connection, positivity, and physical health into our routine, we lay down a strong base for good mental well-being. Start with small steps and don’t hesitate to look for extra help if you need it. Your mental health and well-being are worth it. Starting with one of these strategies is a great way to take better care of your mental health. Each step helps build a stronger foundation for a happier, healthier you.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022, February 3). Positive thinking: Stop negative self-talk to reduce stress. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/positive-thinking/art-20043950
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, March 24). Stress symptoms: Effects on your body and behavior. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987
Mushtaq, R., Shoib, S., Shah, T., & Mushtaq, S. (2014). Relationship Between Loneliness, Psychiatric Disorders and Physical Health ? A Review on the Psychological Aspects of Loneliness. Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research: JCDR, 8(9), WE01-WE04. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4225959/
VandenBos, G. R. (Ed.). (2007). APA Dictionary of Psychology. American Psychological Association. https://dictionary.apa.org/gratitude
(2021, August 14). Giving thanks can make you happier. Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School. https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier
