6 Ways to Take Care of your Mental Health

COVID-19 has been an eye-opener for many. Most people’s mental and physical well-being has been severely affected by the COVID pandemic including professionals, children, young adults, and family members who were cut off from one another.

“Mental well-being” generally refers to your psychological health, which is how you feel about and how well you manage your emotions. Anyone can experience problems with their mental health. This blog will highlight six things you can do to deal with events that could cause anxiety or stress. These tips can help boost your happiness, resilience, and enjoyment of life.

What is Mental Illness?

Talking about mental health means that we are referring to both the external and internal factors that have an impact on an individual’s emotional well-being. And when we use terms such as ‘mental health disorders, mental health problem’, we’re talking about conditions that affect a person’s mood, way of thinking, and ability to cope with life.

The number of mental health disorders affecting individuals is extensive and varied. Furthermore, only mental health or medical practitioners can make such a diagnosis.  These are some of the most common examples:

• Mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder
• Anxiety disorders, including generalised anxiety disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorders
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders

Many conditions can further be found within each one of these categories. Doctors will usually classify these issues using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM) and the International Classification for Diseases(ICD).

Here are some tested ways to significantly improve your mental health & prevent mental health disorders:

1. Talk to someone you can trust

Talk to someone you can trust, whether they are a close friend, a relative, or a colleague. They may be able to help you deal with emotional disturbances. You’d be surprised how much good can come from just a hearty chat with a dear one. If you can express your problems to someone who cares, you may feel more at ease. Even if your social interactions are restricted, you can still keep in touch with your family members or friends via video calls, phone calls, or messaging apps.

2. Focus on physical health

Good physical health is the key to mental and emotional well-being. Be active at least 30 minutes per day for overall health benefits. Additionally, you should eat a healthy, balanced diet and get enough sleep.

3. Indulge in more activities you enjoy

Enjoy meaningful and amusing activities, such as baking, playing with your pet, walking in the park, reading books or watching your favourite television series. A routine filled with joyful activities will keep you consistently healthy and happy.

4.  Avoid harmful substances

Harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs are often used for recreational purposes, which is a bad way to cope with your emotions. Although these substances may temporarily improve your mood, they could lead to you feeling worse over a longer time. These substances are hazardous and can cause serious mental health problems.

5. Two minutes is all it takes to see the world around us

Spending time in nature can help you avoid agitating thoughts. Relax in comfortable positions, take three deep breaths and then ask yourself mindful questions:

• What are the things you are grateful for?
• What is my purpose in life?
• What four things can I hear from you?
• What smells good?

6. Seek medical help

You can seek the guidance of a doctor or counsellor if the stress is overwhelming. Remember, you are not alone, and there are many things you can do for your mental health to support your emotional well-being.

Mental health is often ignored because it doesn’t present with the same symptoms as other ailments. Regardless, it is crucial to recognise that mental health is as important to your well-being as physical health.

Conclusion

A positive and stress-free attitude is key to good mental health. The mind can be kept calm by taking each day as it comes, which will help you stay peaceful and deal with everyday challenges. Look out for panic attacks resulting from stress building up over time.

It is important to address mental health concerns among seniors. Senior citizens experience a wide range of emotions during the second decade of their lives. To maintain harmony and overall well-being, give equal importance to your mental and physical well-being. A happy, balanced life is possible with a sound mind and a strong body.

FAQs

What are the 5 ways to well-being from the Mental Health Foundation?

As mentioned in the previous paragraphs, the 5 ways to well-being are: Connect, Be Active, Be Mindful, Keep Learning and Give to Others.

What are the 5 ways of well-being?

According to research, there are five steps you can take to improve your mental health and well-being. These steps include connecting with family and friends, being active, taking notice, and keeping learning.

Why should we take care of your mental health?

It has been scientifically proven that emotional and mental health is a vital part of a person’s life and impacts their thoughts, behaviours, and emotional state. It is said that being emotionally healthy can help you to be more productive and effective in things such as work, school, and caring for others