This is a brief list of ways to improve your mental health. Consider this a jumping off point, and feel free to add your own.
Prioritize sleep…aim to get 7-9 hours a night.
Regular physical activity…try to get at least 30 minutes of some sort of physical activity a day.
A balanced diet…by balanced I don’t mean just healthy. I mean enjoying all food. Yes,eat the protein ,veggies, and fruits, but also indulge in the sweet treats or salty snack. There is no such thing as bad food, and a healthy relationship with food helps you have a balanced diet. This also includes staying hydrated.
Build meaningful connections…create a support system and community.
Practice stress reducing activities…find things that you enjoy or that relax you and make time for it.
Explore creative outlets… Maybe it’s writing, painting, music, or photography.
Professional Support….checking in with a therapist when you need it.
Set boundaries….learn to know yourself, and remember no is a complete fucking sentence.
Practice gratitude….finding small things to be grateful for each day can increase your mood and reduce stress.
Stay connected… keep in touch with peers, family, and supporters.
Take breaks… sometimes you need to unplug from social media and 24-hour news cycles and enjoy silence or your own company.
Turn your phone off… a minimum of 30 mins before bed or after getting up can do wonders for your mood.
Practice self compassion….we tend to be harder on ourselves than we are everyone else. Practice being your own cheerleader and talk to yourself whenever you mess up like you would talk to your loved ones.
Celebrate small wins….Celebrate and take a bow when something goes your way or you do something positive.
Get outside….cliche , but true, fresh air, and the sun can improve moods and reduce stress, even if it’s just sipping a drink in the sun.
…until next week
herewesayf&@#k!!! 