Your mental health affects the choices you make, your ability to handle stress, and how you relate to others. It’s important to take steps to care for your mental health. This can result in improved mood, better self-esteem, reduced anxiety, stronger relationships, and clearer thought. Improving your mental health can also help you manage certain health conditions that are affected by stress, such as heart disease and inflammatory conditions. Here are some of the best ways to improve mental health:
1. Exercise Regularly
One of the best ways to improve mental health is regular exercise. In addition to physical health benefits, exercise also provides a number of mental health benefits, such as mood improvement, stress relief, and anxiety and depression symptom relief. Try to find a physical activity that you enjoy and that works for your body and health, then incorporate it into your regular routine.
2. Eat Mood-Boosting Foods
There are certain foods you can eat that can help improve mental health. Fatty acids and lean proteins provide vital nutrients for energy production as well as brain and nervous system function. These include foods like fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and seeds. Other mood-boosting foods to incorporate into your diet are leafy green vegetables, berries, and whole grains.
3. Get Quality Sleep
Sleep and mental health are closely connected. While you sleep, your mind and body are recharged and rejuvenated. Not getting enough sleep can contribute to various physical and mental health conditions. Research has found that adults who averaged 6 or fewer hours of sleep per night were approximately 2.5 times more likely to experience frequent mental distress compared to adults who slept more than 6 hours per night.
4. Connect with Others
Socializing with others can help improve mental health. Humans are social creatures by nature, so it’s important to maintain strong, healthy relationships with others. Social connection can reduce feelings of loneliness, provide a greater sense of belonging, and protect against the effects of stress. Try to find time to connect with family or friends in person, and get involved in the community by joining a group or doing volunteer work.
5. Soak Up Some Sun
A great way to improve mental health is to spend time outside in the sun. The sun is the best source of vitamin D, which has been found to improve attitude and mood. Spending just five minutes in the sun can benefit your mind and body. If you have a job where you’re stuck inside all day, try to find time to step outside and take a quick walk or open a window near your desk.
6. Get Creative
Finding a creative outlet can have a positive effect on your mental health. Whether you already have a hobby you’re passionate about or you need to find something new, there are plenty of ways to get creative to improve mental health. Some popular creative activities include writing, drawing, gardening, dancing, knitting, playing an instrument, and others. The key is to find something that stimulates your creative side and that you enjoy doing so you can experience mental relief.
7. Spend Less Time on Social Media
If you want to improve mental health, you may want to cut back on social media use. Seeing posts about other people’s lives can lead to feelings of comparison and low self-worth, resulting in increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Instead of spending time scrolling through social media, find meaningful alternative activities. Turn off social media notifications or delete the apps from your phone so you won’t be tempted to check them throughout the day.
Supplements to Improve Mental Health
In addition to these lifestyle changes, you may also benefit from taking supplements to improve mental health. Ashwagandha is a natural herb that supports your body’s ability to adapt to stress and restores physical and mental energy. AshwaBalance Plus contains a patented ashwagandha extract that contains ten times greater concentration than many ashwagandha products.
