10 October is World Mental Health Day. The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Your mental well-being plays a huge role in your physical health and well-being, and it should be prioritized.
These six suggestions may help you maintain your mental well-being but shouldn’t be considered medical advice.
1. Keep a Routine
One of the best things that you can do to preserve your mental well-being is to stick to a routine. Maintaining as much normalcy as possible with your daily routine can help lift your mood by reducing the stress and anxiety that can come with an unorganized schedule.
2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
This goes hand in hand with sticking to a routine. Breaking your normal sleep routine can have negative effects on your overall mental well-being, so try to stick to your typical sleep schedule.
3. Spend Time Outside
Try to get outside periodically throughout the day; even just spending time in your backyard or taking a walk around the block can be helpful. Being outside helps to promote higher levels of vitamin D, which the body makes when skin is directly exposed to the sun. Many people are deficient in vitamin D, so exercising outside can be a great way to correct that.
4. Stay Connected with Friends and Family
Maintaining social connections is important for your well-being. Sometimes socializing can seem overwhelming but having the support of friends and family can actually reduce stress and improve your mood. A phone call with a family member, a chat with a neighbor over the fence or a cup of coffee with a friend can have positive effects. Research shows that social connections are not only good for your mental health, but your physical health as well.
5. Don’t Obsess over the News
It can be easy to become overwhelmed by watching the news, especially when there are disturbing events happening in the world. While it’s important to be informed, you should not obsess over the news. Instead of monitoring the news all day, consider checking for updates once or twice a day.
6. Practice Positivity and Gratitude
Taking five minutes a day to write down the things you’re grateful for has been proven to lower stress levels and can help you change your mindset from negative to positive. It’s important to build time into your routine to practice positivity or express gratitude, to improve your mindset and boost your mood.
If you have concerns about your mental well-being, please contact your mental health professional or use the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s national helpline by calling 800-662-HELP (4357).
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