Introduction
“Mental
health” refers to your overall psychological well-being. It includes the
way you feel about yourself, the quality of your relationships, and your
ability to manage your feelings and deal with difficulties. Anyone can
experience mental or emotional health problems, and over a lifetime, many of us
will. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, one in five
Canadians experiences a mental illness in any given year. By the time Canadians
reach 40 years old, one in two people have, or have had, a mental illness.
While they're not substitutes for advice or care from
qualified health professionals, the following tips can help you elevate your
mood, become more resilient, and enjoy life more.
The Impact of Social Connections
The Power of Face-to-Face
Interactions
Phone calls and social networks have their place, but few
things can beat the stress-busting, mood-boosting power of quality face-to-face
time with other people, especially those you love and people who energize you.
Rebuilding Connections Post-COVID
For several years, COVID-19 significantly limited this
opportunity. As restrictions continue to lift, this may be a good time to
rebuild safe in-person interactions.
Staying Active for Mental Health
Physical Exercise and Mental
Well-being
Staying active is as good for the brain as it is for the
body. Regular exercise can have a major impact on your mental and emotional
health, relieve stress, improve memory, and help you sleep better.
Activities to Incorporate into Daily
Routine
Incorporate activities like walking, cycling, yoga, or even
dancing into your routine to boost your mental health.
The Importance of Communication
Talking to a Trusted Person
Talk to a friendly face. If you have concerns, stresses, or
worries, sharing these with someone who cares is one of the most effective ways
to calm your nervous system and relieve stress.
Professional Help and Resources
Sometimes, worries are beyond what a friend can handle.
Consider speaking to a professional if you need more help.
Sensory Inputs and Their Benefits
Does listening to an uplifting song make you feel calm? Does
squeezing a stress ball help you feel centered? What about taking a walk in
nature and enjoying the sights and sounds of the trees?
Experimenting with Different Sensory
Activities
Everyone responds to sensory input a little differently, so
experiment with healthy sensory inputs to find what works best for you.
Practicing Relaxation Techniques
Yoga and Its Benefits
Yoga can help reduce overall levels of stress and improve
mental health.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation practices can help you stay
present and manage stress.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises can quickly reduce stress and
promote relaxation.
Prioritizing Leisure and Contemplation
The Necessity of Downtime
We can all be guilty of being "too busy" to take
some downtime, but leisure time is a necessity for emotional and mental health.
Techniques for Effective Relaxation
Take some time to relax, contemplate, and pay attention to
the positive things as you go about your day. Write them down if you can,
because they can be easy to forget. Reflect on them later if your mood is in
need of a boost.
Brain-Healthy Foods
Foods that may support your mood include beans, legumes,
fatty fish rich in omega-3s, nuts, avocados, dark leafy greens, and fruit. Dark
chocolate has also been found to be potentially beneficial for mental health.
The Role of a Balanced Diet
For the best dietary and nutritional advice, talk to a
registered dietician to ensure you're eating a balanced diet that supports
mental health.
Sleep and Mental Rejuvenation
Sleep matters more than many people think. It is our body and
mind's best way to recharge and rejuvenate.
Tips for Better Sleep Hygiene
One way to sleep better is to take a break from the
stimulation of screens in the hours before bedtime. Consider reading or
listening to relaxing music instead.
The Significance of Purpose
Finding purpose in your day is a big factor in good mental
health.
Ways to Find Meaning in Daily Life
Engage in work and play that makes you feel useful. Invest in
relationships and spend quality time with people who matter to you. Volunteer,
care for others, and think of one good deed or gesture to do each day.
Your mental health is a vital part of your overall
well-being. By making social connections, staying active, communicating,
engaging your senses, practicing relaxation techniques, prioritizing leisure,
eating a brain-healthy diet, ensuring good sleep, finding purpose, and seeking
help when needed, you can enhance your mental health and lead a more fulfilling
life.
Moreover, leveraging available resources and seeking professional help
when needed can provide the necessary support to navigate mental health
challenges effectively. Embracing these practices not only enhances our
resilience and mood but also contributes to a more fulfilling and balanced
life. Prioritizing mental health empowers us to lead happier, more connected,
and meaningful lives, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive care and
proactive approaches to mental well-being.
