Overview
The prevalence of mental health issues is constantly on the rise, which has pushed healthcare officials to consider this phenomenon a serious public health problem.
In this article, we will discuss 10 methods to help you improve your mental health
Top 10 methods to improve your mental health
Exercise frequently
Regular exercise is considered the cheapest way to improve your mental and physical health by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADDA).
This effect results from the release of stress-relieving hormones, such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin.
Eat well
Consuming whole foods and staying away from processed products help the body regulate the stress hormone, cortisol, which eventually leads to less stress and improved mental health. (1)
Sleep well
Sleep is your brain’s own way to reboot itself and reorganizes life events to optimize your mental capacity and performance.
Chronic sleep deprivation is devastating to your body, hence the need to prioritize healthy sleep hygiene. (2)
Avoid stimulants
While caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine might seem like the answer to your problems at some point, these substances can lead to dire consequences if consumed chronically.
Instead, opt for stress-calming activities, such as yoga, meditation, and music.
Stay positive!
Bad vibes are the worst!
Try to surround yourself with positive people that always make you smile. Studies showed that being around positive people contaminate you into being more positive about your life despite having issues.
Don’t be hard on yourself
This tip is specifically for individuals who always worry and care too much while trying to control every aspect of their lives.
Learn to accept that some things are just out of your control.
Time management
Postponing every task you have due to work overload can take a toll on your body and brain. To prevent this from happening, use a planner to organize your time and avoid burnouts.
Get a massage
Most people ignore the benefits of getting a massage, which exceed conventional physical relaxation to entail mental clearance and performance.
Scientists believe that musculoskeletal manipulation stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine in the central nervous system (CNS), which improves mental health.
Practice mindfulness
Throughout the years, researchers analyzed hundreds of clinical trials and scientific publications to fully comprehend the effects of mindfulness on physical and mental health.
In a classic 2014 meta-analysis, experts concluded that mindfulness can reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders if practiced regularly.
Avoid stress triggers
To avoid your stress triggers, you first have to identify them.
Try to keep a journal of everything that made you feel stressed that day, and then analyze those findings and make a plan to avoid the triggers.
Conclusion
Hopefully, the tips cited in this article will help you achieve optimal mental health, which subsequently leads to optimal physical health.
If you have any questions about any of the tips covered, feel free to ask in the comment section below.
