Your mental and physical health are often separated by mind and body when discussed. However, both aspects of your well-being rely on each other and need one another in order for your overall health to thrive. Neglecting your mental health can have a severe impact on your physical well-being.
When your mental health suffers, you might find yourself falling into unhealthy patterns like not getting enough hours of sleep or eating poorly. Sleep plays a vital role in your physical well-being. Your body uses rest to heal your heart and blood vessels, so when you are sleep deprived you are increasing your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and many other health issues. Lack of sleep can also lower your body’s defenses against medical conditions and can cause growth and development issues.
Eating poorly has a more significant impact on your physical health than you might realize. When your mental health suffers it's easier to reach for fatty and overly processed foods. Although it’s okay to enjoy the occasional snack, overindulging can affect your gut health (more on that here). Your gut is known as the second brain, and your gut health plays a prominent role in maintaining your physical health. Poor gut health can cause a weak immune system and poor heart health, affecting your physical wellbeing.
When managing your physical health it’s crucial to find effective ways to better your mental health to help you live your healthiest life. If you are dealing with mental health issues, it’s important to diagnose and treat them, just as you would with physical ailments. Continue reading to learn how to improve your mental health!
How To Improve Your Mental Health
Maintaining good mental health is not a one size fits all method, and it often takes trial and error to see what works best for you, but there are certain things you can do to help re-balance your mind and get your mental health back on track.
1. GET HELP
If you find yourself struggling to get your mental health back on track, don’t wait and get help. If you don’t know where to start, consider talking to a friend or family member first. Beginning a discussion with your friends or family can help ease nerves, remove the stigma attached to mental health, and make it easier for you to pinpoint where the issues are. For more complicated issues, professional help might be beneficial. If you believe that you could benefit from consulting with a licensed expert, then try an online therapy service. Seeking an online option is a great resource for those who want a more professional customized approach from the comfort of their own home.
2. KEEP ACTIVE
Although fitness is typically associated with your physical health, taking care of your body physically can improve many aspects of your mental health. Regular physical activity can release endorphins that can trigger a positive feeling in the body and mind, while also increasing your energy and alertness. Regular exercise has also been shown to decrease anxiety and stress. Doing simple things like going on walks to get your steps up can make a big difference. Spending at least 10 minutes on exercise can improve your overall mood and help you become a happier person.
3. QUIET YOUR MIND
Life is filled with distractions, especially when you are constantly glued to your smartphone or tablet, and although it can feel like a harmless distraction, be mindful of how much time you are spending on your
digital devices. Technology can contribute to stress and anxiety, and with a constant need to check emails, texts, and social media, it can be hard to let go of your phone and be present. Consider a digital detox to set limits on your device usage and help quiet your mind. A digital detox can help you let go of stress or anxiety stemming from feeling like you have to be connected. Use your digital detox as a time to reconnect with yourself—practice mindfulness through meditation or enjoying a hobby like painting or cooking.
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