This World Mental Health Day, Here are 7 Ways To Take Care Of Your Mental Health

World Mental Health Day Infographic_Activ Living Community

World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness of mental health issues. In 2023, the observance of World Mental Health Day came at a time when mental health had moved even more sharply into the collective consciousness of societies across the globe. As the world navigated its way through new social, environmental, and technological challenges, mental well-being had become a cornerstone of discourse and action.

With so much going on in one’s day-to-day stress and anxiety, it is important to re-examine how you approach your life and work. Take a look at some strategies that can help you manage your mental health:

Staying active is beneficial for the mind and the body. Your physical wellness and mental well-being go hand-in-hand. Exercise regularly or participate in some activity that can help release endorphins or happy hormones. Keeping your mind and body busy can significantly impact your mental and emotional health, relieve stress, boost concentration and improve memory, and help you sleep better.
Practising yoga, mindfulness meditation, or deep breathing techniques can bring the mind and body to a state of relaxation.
Eating a brain-healthy diet to support your mental well-being can go a long way in keeping you healthy in the long run. When you eat fast food, it can lead to certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes or cholesterol. Your physical ill-health can take a toll on your mind. Therefore, consume foods that boost your mood, including Omega-3 fatty acids, nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and cashews), leafy green vegetables (spinach and Brussels sprouts), beans, and fresh fruits. Limit caffeinated beverages, like coffee and soft drinks, and avoid tobacco and alcohol.
Get 7-8 hours of sleep. Not getting adequate sleep can make you cranky, irritable, and angry and deter you from paying attention throughout the day. It is during your sleep that your brain and body recover and recharge. To get good sleep, try to keep all electronics away 30 minutes or an hour before bedtime, as the blue light emitted by these devices can hamper your sleep cycle.
Spend some time in nature. This can be in the form of a stroll in a park, a hike in the woods, or basking in sunlight to elevate your mood.
Practice gratitude. Remind yourself every day 3 things you are grateful for and jot them down. This exercise will encourage you to focus on the positive aspects of life.
Talking or confiding in someone about your mental state can help relieve stress. It can be your family, friends, or a mental health professional (counselors or therapists).