11 Things You Should Start Doing to Improve Your Mental Well-Being

Last Updated on August 4, 2023 by Avia

Mental well-being is one of the most important aspects of people’s lives. If a person is mentally healthy, it transfers to better physical health, improved social relationships, and even increased life expectancy. 

What’s scary is that neglected mental well-being can easily transform into serious mental diseases like depression, anxiety, OCD, and more. Even though medicine is evolving, according to Forbes Health, “The percentage of adults from the US who receive mental health treatment increased from 19.2% in 2019 to 21.6% in 2021.” These numbers are concerning.

So, how can you help yourself improve your mental well-being? Here are some practical and proven strategies to improve your mental well-being:

Practicing Meditation and Mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness practices have gained popularity for their positive impact on mental well-being. Mindfulness involves focusing on the issues and taking control of your train of thought. Meditation enhances self-awareness and regulates emotions, reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. Subsequently, regular practice improves focus, clarity of mind, and overall resilience.

Adopting a Pet

Adopting a pet (and doing so responsibly) has an underrated positive impact on people’s moods. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that having a pet can improve life emotionally, psychologically, and socially. Pet companionship provides a sense of comfort and security, which helps alleviate anxiety. Spending time with animals also helps release natural dopamine and serotonin, promoting happiness and pleasure.

The responsibilities of owning a pet, like feeding, grooming, and training, give a sense of purpose and structure. While domestic animals have different needs and unique influences on their owners, there are still many similarities to enjoy. Nuwber, for example, states that having a cat or dog strongly correlates to reading. Reading, in turn, reduces stress and improves memory and focus. So why not bring home a furry companion?

Doing Physical Exercises Regularly

We all know engaging in regular physical activity is great for your body, but it’s also essential if you want to improve your mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. It reduces stress, improves sleep quality, and boosts self-esteem. For most people, exercise is associated with strenuous activities, but many easy practices exist.

A simple yoga class or walk on the beach can be as beneficial to your mental health as a hiking excursion or an hour-long session at the gym. Walking, jogging, and dancing can all contribute to a healthier mind. If you’re new to this, you can start with any activity you enjoy that involves movement.

Making Friends

Human connections play a vital role in improving mental wellness. Socializing with friends, family, and coworkers provides emotional support and a sense of belonging. Engaging in meaningful conversations, expressing opinions, and building strong relationships reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, promoting a positive outlook on life. 

However, pay close attention to the people you surround yourself with and ensure they positively influence your actions. Do not be afraid to cut connections with toxic individuals.

Limiting Social Media Use

While connecting with other people is important, too much time on social media use can harm your mental health. Constant comparison, cyberbullying, and information overload can increase anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. 

Setting boundaries and limiting screen time help implement more meaningful face-to-face interactions and protect mental health. Smartphones now have applications that monitor screen time. You can use these to regulate the time you spend on social media. You can instead develop hobbies that don’t involve technology, such as reading, playing a sport, or knitting.

Practicing Gratitude

An attitude of gratitude has been shown to improve mental well-being significantly. Consider keeping a gratitude journal. This practice involves writing down things you are thankful for, and helps shift focus toward positive affirmations. Gratitude fosters optimism, enhances emotional resilience, and reduces stress, ultimately leading to greater contentment. Setting aside a few minutes in the morning to say your affirmations have also been proven to improve mental well-being.

Pursuing Interests and Hobbies

Exploring interests and engaging in hobbies and interests outside of work or daily routines brings joy and fulfillment. Participating in activities you are passionate about helps to alleviate stress and improves overall mental well-being. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, gardening, or reading, these hobbies provide an opportunity for relaxation and self-expression.

Seeing a Professional

Getting professional help when facing mental health challenges is crucial. Talking to a therapist or counselor provides a safe space to address emotional issues, explore coping strategies, and gain valuable insights into your thoughts and behaviors. Seeking help early on can prevent issues from escalating and provide enough time to promote healing and growth.

Developing a Healthy Sleep Routine

Sleep plays a vital role in people’s lives. Sleep deprivation increases irritability and decreases positive emotions. A consistent sleep schedule and a relaxing bedtime routine help improve mental well-being. 

Sufficient rest enhances cognitive function, emotional stability, and resilience to stress. Avoid caffeine and screen time before bedtime. This one tip can significantly contribute to a more restful sleep. Ambiance also affects your sleep; ensure your room is dark, quiet, and cool.

Practicing Self-Compassion

Being around people treating you well is not enough to improve your mental well-being; you must be kind to yourself. Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding as you would a friend. Acknowledging imperfections, accepting failures, and being patient with personal progress contribute to higher self-esteem and reduced self-criticism. 

Self-awareness and self-forgiveness are crucial. Use self-assuring statements, especially during distress, to silence your inner critic. Insecurities often lead us to judge ourselves too quickly.

Embracing Nature

Spending time in nature is a surefire way to stay calm. Whether going for a hike, swimming in the lake or river, or simply sitting in the park, natural environments reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Nature provides an opportunity to disconnect from daily pressures and reconnects with the world. When you’re outside, regulating emotions and concentrating on the positive is easier.

Improve Mental Well-Being and Get Your Life Back on Track

Mental well-being is a journey that requires consistent effort and self-awareness. By incorporating the above strategies into your daily life, you build resilience, cultivate a positive mindset, and experience greater overall happiness. Prioritizing mental health benefits you personally and creates a more compassionate and supportive society. Remember, small steps toward enhancing your mental well-being can have profound and long-lasting positive effects.