1. Taking care of your body is also taking care of your mind.

Be aware of the close relationship between physical health and mental health.

There are definitely links between the physical and the mental, such as:

  • Diet:  eating processed foods and foods that are high in fats can negatively impact mental health. Eating foods that create fat in the body causes the body and mind to feel sluggish and they slow down functions like motivation, concentration, and the energy to get through your day. Limit your sugar and fat intake to maintain a healthy mind. 
  • Rest: one important foundation of good mental health is getting enough sleep and getting quality sleep. Fatigue can have a very real negative impact on mental wellness.  Take breaks during the day, especially if you have a chaotic schedule. Taking a short break will actually help you do more in the long run. Research ways in which you can improve your sleep.
  • Exercise: releases endorphins that increase relaxation and reduce stress and tension. Building strength, endurance, and achieving goals can help boost self-confidence. Research supports that being overweight or obese is directly related to feelings of anxiety, depression and irritability.
  1. Include positive, healthy simulation for your brain. Adopt habits that enhance your mentation and feeling of well-being.
  • Challenge your brain by learning new skills and engaging in new activities. Try things that you’ve always wanted to learn. Don’t worry about being good at it; enjoy the activity itself and avoid being overly self-critical.
  • Take time to meditate. Even 5 minutes of meditation in the middle of your day will help you relax your body and mind. 
  • Learn and practice breathing techniques. Deep breathing helps the body and mind stay healthy by providing oxygen to the brain and muscles. Practicing deep breathing exercises daily can reduce stress and tension, which promotes mental wellness.
  • Start a gratitude journal to help yourself be aware of the positive aspects of your life.
  • Start a mindfulness practice to help yourself reduce judging and comparing, which lead to negative thoughts.
  1. Build healthy relationships with your family and friends. 
    • Evaluate the quality of your relationships and work to make them better. Are you choosing healthy, positive friendships and partnerships?
    • Reach out to family that support you. Maintain boundaries with family members that may be less than healthy or even destructive. 
    • Work to find new relationships to enhance your social circle.
    • Be sure to emotionally invest in people that support you in a healthy way.
  1. Consult with your doctor or a mental health professional.
    • Find a practitioner who can help you create a plan to keep yourself well and promote mental health in your life. Mental health professionals have mental health wellness tips that can support your unique needs.