Mental health is a tricky subject.

It’s a topic that includes emotional, psychological, and social aspects of our lives. These parts are closely connected and can affect a person’s overall well-being.

Emotional health is about understanding and managing feelings. This can impact relationships and the choices a person makes. Psychological factors involve thoughts and beliefs, which can influence how people see and react to challenges. Social aspects include community support and relationships with others, which help reinforce feelings of security and connectedness.

All these elements together create a complete picture of mental health. They highlight how important mental health is for building resilience, coping with stress, and improving a person’s quality of life.

Keep in mind that these strategies are not a substitute for professional assistance. There’s no shame or judgment in reaching out to a qualified professional who specializes in the areas where help is needed.

Here are some simple ways to improve mental health:

1. Slow down

Life is busy, and no one is immune. However, people who prioritize work and spend time doomscrolling on social media might miss what’s happening around them. One way to reclaim this bandwidth is by practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness is as simple as watching a bird fly or meditating. Acknowledging specific details can help a person relax and feel at peace.

As a writer myself, I’m a massive advocate for writing. I believe in the power of journaling. Writing is an excellent tool for self-reflection, which feeds into personal growth. When we write, we can explore our thoughts and feelings. This allows our minds to wander and our ideas to grow. Writing is not just a routine; it’s a journey into the mind, helping people understand experiences and emotions that might stay hidden otherwise.

2. Give a little

Building good relationships doesn’t take long. A person can form meaningful connections in a few weeks or months. A person shouldn’t seek to make best friends with everyone that they meet; even a brief chat with a neighbor can help. It could be something as simple as reaching out to an old friend or family member and setting up a coffee date to catch up.

There’s also the option to find ways to give time. Giving can take many forms, such as volunteering at a local shelter, mentoring a young person, or helping someone in need. The important thing is to reassess where a person’s time and energy are going and use them more purposefully.

3. Upskill

Learning a new skill or hobby can improve a person’s mental health. It gives them a chance to meet new people and boosts their self-esteem, providing them with a purpose outside of work. Many people say they don’t have time for trying something new, but the only thing holding these people back is themselves.

Technology can help. For example, the simple act of signing up for an online course to learn a new language counts. Countless video tutorials exist that can help homeowners tackle DIY projects. Budding cooks can search for healthy recipes and practice making them.

4. Let’s get physical

Being physically active is suitable for the body and the mind. Exercise releases endorphins, which help improve mood and reduce feelings of pain and anxiety. More activity can potentially help a person notice positive changes in how they feel about themselves. As with anything, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to movement.

Potential activities might include a 15-minute walk, an hour of cycling per week, or 30 minutes at the gym. Something as simple as looking online for free activities that fit someone’s fitness level and are adaptable to chronic health issues and disabilities, such as dancing, swimming, or cycling. There’s also the option to follow a Couch to 5K plan for running support.

Love, peace, & adobo grease,

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