When it comes to your mental health, there are several easy ways to take proper care of yourself alongside seeking professional help.
These essential steps will ensure you’re on the right track to a healthy mind.
1. Get the right amount of sleep
When it comes to sleep, everyone is different. Some adults are able to fully function on five hours of sleep every day, while others need at least eight hours and an early bedtime to keep on top of things. However, research shows that those with fewer hours of sleep and disrupted sleep patterns are more likely to experience mental distress.
Incorporating these healthy habits into your sleep routine will help you feel better rested:
Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day.
Ensure your bedroom is a calm environment and as clutter-free as possible.
Avoid using your phone in the hour before you go to sleep.
2. Reduce your social media usage
We all know that excessive social media consumption is not good for our minds. That being said, it can be hard to curb unhealthy scrolling habits.
To spend less time on social media, try to:
Keep your phone in a drawer or outside your bedroom while sleeping.
Make a list of alternate, more meaningful activities to replace your usual scrolling sessions.
Turn off notifications or delete social apps from your phone.
3. Prioritise fresh air and exercise
Going out to get some fresh air can be a quick fix for a low mood. Movement and exercise offers a range of mental health benefits, including:
Relieving stress
Lifting mood
Helping you fall asleep faster and sleep longer
Helping you manage symptoms of depression and anxiety conditions
You could join a walking or running club, take a yoga class, join the gym or even do some gardening.
4. Improve your diet
Try to cut back on junk food, sugary drinks and alcohol. Instead, consider expanding your current diet to include foods packed with mood-boosting nutrients like:
berries
bananas
beans
whole grains
fatty fish, like salmon
Another easy way to help your mind is to remember to drink water constantly to avoid dehydration and keep your body functioning properly.
5. Make your morning routine enjoyable
Getting up in the morning can be the hardest part of your day, so a useful tip is to turn your waking up routine into something you look forward to. Whether it’s making some delicious breakfast or listening to a podcast you really enjoy, take this time to start your day on a positive note.
If you’re interested in developing a thorough understanding of mental health, turn to Key Counselling Training. We offer accredited counselling courses that teach people how to understand, identify and respond to signs and symptoms of various mental health conditions, as well as achieve a greater understanding of your own mental health. From psychotherapy courses to specialist child and CBT diploma training, we cover everything. Contact us today to find out more about what we do.