7 Easy Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

Life is busy for everyone—it’s just part of being an adult. Working, trying to balance a social life, keeping up with your family, and dealing with other obligations can mean you don’t have much time to dedicate to yourself. If you find yourself feeling a little down, there are some ways to combat a negative mood and outlook. You don’t have to utilize all the tips in this article, but try to work in a few of these activities and ideas to boost your mood and create a more optimistic view. 

1. Carve out quiet time 

There should be at least ten to fifteen minutes of your day that’s just for you. Maybe it’s in the morning with a cup of craft coffee from the local coffee shop. Or, maybe try a morning yoga class to center yourself for the day. If you’re not really a morning person, get out during your lunch break at work and go for a walk without your phone. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure it involves taking a breather from screens and technology. This will give both your brain and eyes the rest it needs. 

2. Take care of yourself 

Maybe you don’t have time to sit down and eat three four-course meals a day—that’s okay. Just make sure that you are eating nutritious food, with the occasional dessert and cookie to keep your sweet tooth satisfied. Food that’s healthy for your body is also good for your brain. Even if you don’t want to follow a specific diet, just stick to the “rainbow rule”: eat a variety of colorful foods so your brain (and body) gets an array of essential vitamins and minerals. You might be surprised how much a change in diet helps to boost your mood.  

3. Cope with stress 

Whether it’s due to a busy week at work or a sick family member, stress is going to happen. Stress can cause a host of health problems and negatively affect your mental health. Mitigate the effects of stress with healthy coping mechanisms. 

• Practice Tai Chi 

• Take a walk out in nature 
• Attend a yoga class  
• Write in a journal 
• Take an exercise class at your gym 
• Go on a hike with friends 

• Get a massage 

4. Set a goal and work towards it 

Maybe you’ve been in a rut with your workout, your family life, or job. If this is the case, try setting a goal that’s achievable in 6 to 12 months to change things up. Write down your goal and make sure that you can visibly see the goal somewhere every single day. This tactic will help keep you motivated even during rough days where you don’t feel like doing anything.  

Your goal can be as big or as little as you want it to be. And although a fitness goal might be an easy go-to, you can also set a different goal related to another hobby or just do something you’ve always wanted to do.  

Here are some examples of goals you can set: 

• Run a 5k, half marathon, or full marathon 
• Take a class to learn a professional skill outside of work 
• Pursue a new hobby like tennis or painting 
• Throw a dinner party 
•  

5. Take a break from alcohol 

If you’re feeling down, try to stay away from alcohol which acts as a depressant. Even if you enjoy the temporary numbing effect of alcohol, it won’t last. And sometimes, it will cause you to feel even worse afterward.  

6. Look inward 

Have you ever been curious about auras? If you want to delve into the deepest parts of yourself, buy a kirlian camera. A kirlian camera allows you to see a representation of what your aura might look like and you’ll receive deep insights into your inner character and tendencies. 

7. Ask for help 

Can you delegate tasks at work to take a few things off of your plate? Can you get a babysitter for a night so you can go get dinner with your significant other?  

Sometimes, you need to reach out for help. If you need assistance dealing with the pressures of life, don’t be afraid to talk to friends and family. And if you find that your issues are not being resolved, think about talking to a professional therapist who can give you some specific strategies to manage stress and cope with changes. 

In summary 

Just as your physical health is crucial for your well-being, so, too, is your mental health. By practicing mindfulness and taking time each day to re-energize yourself, you’ll be on your way to a more optimistic outlook. 

Mandy X

Author: Mandy Kloppers

Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.