There are a few things you can stop doing to support your mental health better. By cultivating healthier routines, you can help to relieve symptoms of mental health issues.
Going To Bed Too Late
At the end of a long working day, it is tempting to stay up later to catch up on a favourite TV show, book, or game. You might feel that you deserve the extra time to relax.
However, if you regularly stay up too late, it could damage your mental health.
Insufficient sleep can add up over weeks or months, leading to fatigue, mood disturbances, brain fog, and trouble concentrating.
Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night to function at their best. Children and teens need even more.
You can improve your sleep quality by practising good sleep hygiene, which includes:
- Avoiding screens for an hour or two before bedtime
- Going to bed at the same time every night
- Sleeping in a cool, dark room
Skipping Your Exercise
Exercising does so much more than building lean muscle mass. If you skip it, your mental health will suffer. Exercising supports your mental health in the following ways:
- It helps your brain to release feel-good endorphins, a chemical that releases stress and improves your mood
- It shifts your focus and takes your mind off your worries
- Exercise provides a positive coping strategy for dealing with daily stressors
- It helps to boost your self-confidence
You do not even have to do strenuous exercise. Your brain will benefit from simply walking one and a half kilometres a day. Just do not skip exercising because you are feeling low.
Falling For Fast-Foods
With limited time and energy, it is tempting to rely on quick, convenient meals. The problem is that many of these fast foods lack the nutrition your brain and body need. Diets lacking in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, whole grains, and lean proteins can worsen the symptoms of mood disorders. Also, make sure to include healthy fats in your diet. These can be found in foods like avocados, cold-water fish and olive oil.
Dashing Through The Days
With hectic schedules, it seems the only way to get the work done is by tearing through your to-do lists. Unfortunately, the stress of too much rushing is damaging to your mental health. It is vital to schedule breathing periods into your day. Try to simplify your schedule or incorporate stress management techniques into your day.
Ignoring The Signs
When you are going through a difficult time and are struggling a bit, do not ignore the warning signs of burnout, anxiety, or depression. When it comes to your mental health, getting the help you need is a sign of strength. The longer you wait to get help, the more harmful your symptoms can be to your health. The ultimate goal of your mental health treatment is to feel better and cope better with your daily life.
If you need help with your mental health, do not hesitate to get in touch with a Mental Health Professional or call Life Path Health’s 24/7-Helpline on 072-7900-506.
Read More:
The Surprising Effects Of Anxiety On The Body
Tips For Dealing With Mental Burnout
Lifestyle Changes That Can Help With Depression