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If you want to hear the Best Things Regarding Mental Health, just visit This Website. It's all about Mental Services.10 top tips for good mental healthAn important part of keeping fit and healthy is to take care of best things for mental health own mental health. There are plenty of things best things for mental health can do to help make sure best things for mental health keep best things for mental health self mentally healthy.Get plenty of sleepSleep is really important for our physical and mental health. Sleep helps to regulate the chemicals in our brain that transmit information. These chemicals are important in managing our moods and emotions. If we don't get enough sleep, we can start to feel depressed or anxious.The Sleep Foundation provides tips on how to sleep well, and to overcome problems with sleeping.Eat wellEating well isn't just important for our bodies, but it's also important for our minds. Certain mineral deficiencies, such as iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies, can give us a low mood. Try to eat a balanced diet. If best things for mental health find best things for mental health a particularly stressed or anxious person, best things for mental health should try limiting or cutting out caffeine as this can make best things for mental health feel jittery and anxious.Avoid alcohol, smoking and drugsDrinking and smoking aren't things which we always associate with withdrawal symptoms, but they can cause some which impact on best things for mental health mental health. When best things for mental health had a few drinks best things for mental health can feel more depressed and anxious the next day, and it can be harder to concentrate. Excessive drinking for prolonged periods can leave best things for mental health with a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine is important for our brain function and a deficiency can lead to severe memory problems, motor (coordination) problems, confusion and eye problems. If best things for mental health smoke, between cigarettes best things for mental health body and brain go into withdrawal which makes best things for mental health irritable and anxious.Other drugs will often leave best things for mental health in withdrawal and can often cause very low moods and anxiety. More severe effects of drugs include paranoia and delusions. There is some research that suggests drug use is related to developing mental disorders like schizophrenia.Have a look at our pages on Help to stop smoking and on Alcohol and subtance use for more information.Get plenty of sunlightSunlight is a great source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is a really important vitamin for our bodies and our brains. It helps our brains to release chemicals which improve our mood, like endorphins and serotonin. Try to go out in the sun when best things for mental health can, but make sure best things for mental health keep best things for mental health skin and eyes safe. 30 minutes to two hours a day of sunlight is ideal. During the winter, some people become depressed because they aren't getting enough sunlight - this is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Some people find using a special light-therapy lamp helps to alleviate the symptoms.Manage stressStress is often unavoidable, but knowing what triggers best things for mental health stress and knowing how to cope is key in maintaining good mental health. Try to manage best things for mental health responsibilities and worries by making a list or a schedule of when best things for mental health can resolve each issue. Often if best things for mental health break down best things for mental health worries and stresses and write them down, best things for mental health realise that they are manageable. Try to avoid burying best things for mental health head in the sand, and tackle problems face on. If best things for mental health find best things for mental health are having trouble sleeping, or are waking up thinking about all of the things that are stressing best things for mental health out, write them down and reassure best things for mental health self that best things for mental health can deal with them in the morning.Activity and exerciseActivity and exercise are essential in maintaining good mental health. Being active not only gives best things for mental health a sense of achievement, but it boosts the chemicals in best things for mental health brain that help put best things for mental health in a good mood. Exercising can help eliminate low mood, anxiety, stress and feeling tired and lazy. It is also linked to living a longer life.best things for mental health don't need to run a marathon or play 90 minutes of football; a short walk or some another gentle activity might do the trick.Take a look at our Exercise and sport section, or go to our Events calendar, for ideas and information on what is going on in best things for mental health area.Do something best things for mental health enjoyTry to make time for doing the fun things best things for mental health enjoy. If best things for mental health like going for a walk, painting or a specific TV show, try to set aside time to enjoy best things for mental health self. If we don't spend any time doing things we enjoy, we can become irritable and unhappy.Whether best things for mental health need help to get out and about or not take a look at our Things To Do section, or go to our Events calendar, for ideas and information on what is going on in best things for mental health area.Connect with others and be sociableMake an effort to maintain good relationships and talk to people whenever best things for mental health get the chance. Having friends is important not just for best things for mental health self-esteem, but also for providing support when best things for mental health not feeling too great. Research has found that talking to others for just ten minutes can improve memory and test scores!Whether or not best things for mental health find going out and meeting people difficult best things for mental health can have a look at our Social Activities pages or our Events calendar for inspiration.Do things for othersHelping others isn't just good for the people best things for mental health helping; it's good for best things for mental health too. Helping someone can help with best things for mental health self-esteem and make best things for mental health feel good about best things for mental health place in the world. Feeling as though best things for mental health part of a community is a really important part of best things for mental health mental health. best things for mental health could try volunteering for a local charity, or just being neigh bourly.Ask for helpOne of the most important ways to keep best things for mental health self mentally healthy is to recognise when best things for mental health not feeling good, and to know when to ask for help. There's no shame in asking someone for support if best things for mental health feeling low or stressed. Everyone goes through patches where they don't feel as good as they should. best things for mental health can try speaking to best things for mental health friends or family, or if best things for mental health think best things for mental health mental health is getting on top of best things for mental health then best things for mental health can speak to best things for mental health GP.Other information and advicePlease see the Other information and Advice page for organisations and services that support people with experience of mental health issues.Ten Things best things for mental health Can Do for best things for mental health Mental HealthTry these tips to keep best things for mental health balance, or re-balance best things for mental health self.*1. Value best things for mental health self:Treat best things for mental health self with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Make time for best things for mental health hobbies and favorite projects, or broaden best things for mental health horizons. Do a daily crossword puzzle, plant a garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an instrument or become fluent in another language.2. Take care of best things for mental health body:Taking care of best things for mental health self physically can improve best things for mental health mental health. Be sure to:Eat nutritious mealsAvoid smoking and vaping-- see Cessation HelpDrink plenty of waterExercise, which helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moodsGet enough sleep. Researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to a high rate of depression in college students.3. Surround best things for mental health self with good people:People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lack a support network. Make plans with supportive family members and friends, or seek out activities where best things for mental health can meet new people, such as a club, class or support group.4. Give best things for mental health self:Volunteer best things for mental health time and energy to help someone else. best things for mental health feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need — and it's a great way to meet new people. See Fun and Cheap Things to do in Ann Arbor for ideas.5. Learn how to deal with stress:Like it or not, stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills: Try One-Minute Stress Strategies, do Tai Chi, exercise, take a nature walk, play with best things for mental health pet or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Also, remember to smile and see the humor in life. Research shows that laughter can boost best things for mental health immune system, ease pain, relax best things for mental health body and reduce stress.6. Quiet best things for mental health mind:Try meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises and prayer can improve best things for mental health state of mind and outlook on life. In fact, research shows that meditation may help best things for mental health feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy. To get connected, see spiritual resources on Personal Well-being for Students7. Set realistic goals:Decide what best things for mental health want to achieve academically, professionally and personally, and write down the steps best things for mental health need to realize best things for mental health goals. Aim high, but be realistic and don't over-schedule. best things for mental health enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth as best things for mental health progress toward best things for mental health goal. Wellness Coaching, free to U-M students, can help best things for mental health develop goals and stay on track.8. Break up the monotony:Although our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. Alter best things for mental health jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk in a different park, hang some new pictures or try a new restaurant. See Rejuvenation 101 for more ideas.9. Avoid alcohol and other drugs:Keep alcohol use to a minimum and avoid other drugs. Sometimes people use alcohol and other drugs to "self-medicate" but in reality, alcohol and other drugs only aggravate problems. For more information, see Alcohol and Other Drugs.10. Get help when best things for mental health need it:Seeking help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. And it is important to remember that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives. See Resources for Stress and Mental Health for campus and community resources.31 Tips To Boost best things for mental health Mental Health1. Track gratitude and achievement with a journal. Include 3 things best things for mental health were grateful for and 3 things best things for mental health were able to accomplish each day.2. Start best things for mental health day with a cup of co­ffee. Coff­ee consumption is linked to lower rates of depression. If best things for mental health can’t drink coff­ee because of the caff­eine, try another good-for-best things for mental health drink like green tea.3. Set up a getaway. It could be camping with friends or a trip to the tropics. The act of planning a vacation and having something to look forward to can boost best things for mental health overall happiness for up to 8 weeks!4, Work best things for mental health strengths. Do something best things for mental health good at to build self-confidence, then tackle a tougher task.5. Keep it cool for a good night's sleep. The optimal temperature for sleep is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit.6. "best things for mental health don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step." - Martin Luther King, Jr. Think of something in best things for mental health life best things for mental health want to improve, and figure out what best things for mental health can do to take a step in the right direction.7. Experiment with a new recipe, write a poem, paint or try a Pinterest project. Creative expression and overall well-being are linked.8. Show some love to someone in best things for mental health life. Close, quality, relationships are key for a happy, healthy life.9. Boost brainpower by treating best things for mental health self to a couple pieces of dark chocolate every few days. The flavanoids, caffeine, and theobromine in chocolate are thought to work together to improve alertness and mental skills.10. “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of best things for mental health.” -Maya Angelou. If best things for mental health have personal experience with mental illness or recovery, share on Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr with Check out what other people are saying here.11. Sometimes, we don't need to add new activities to get more pleasure. We just need to soak up the joy in the ones we've already got. Trying to be optimistic doesn't mean ignoring the uglier sides of life. It just means focusing on the positive as much as possible.12. Feeling anxious? Take a trip down memory lane and do some coloring for about 20 minutes to help best things for mental health clear best things for mental health mind. Pick a design that's geometric and a little complicated for the best effect. Check out hundreds of free printable coloring pages here.13. Take time to laugh. Hang out with a funny friend, watch a comedy or check out cute videos online. Laughter helps reduce anxiety.14. Go off the grid. Leave best things for mental health smart phone at home for a day and disconnect from constant emails, alerts, and other interruptions. Spend time doing something fun with someone face-to-face.15. Dance around while best things for mental health do best things for mental health housework. Not only will best things for mental health get chores done, but dancing reduces levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases endorphins (the body's "feel-good" chemicals).16. Go ahead and yawn. Studies suggest that yawning helps cool the brain and improves alertness and mental efficiency.17. Relax in a warm bath once a week. Try adding Epsom salts to soothe aches and pains and help boost magnesium levels, which can be depleted by stress.18. Has something been bothering best things for mental health? Let it all out…on paper. Writing about upsetting experiences can reduce symptoms of depression.19. Spend some time with a furry friend. Time with animals lowers the stress hormone - cortisol, and boosts oxytocin - which stimulates feelings of happiness. If best things for mental health don’t have a pet, hang out with a friend who does or volunteer at a shelter.20. “What lies before us and what lies behind us are small matters compared to what lies within us. And when best things for mental health bring what is within out into the world, miracles happen.” - Henry David Thoreau. Practice mindfulness by staying "in the present." Try these tips.21. Be a tourist in best things for mental health own town. Often times people only explore attractions on trips, but best things for mental health may be surprised what cool things are in best things for mental health own backyard.22. Try prepping best things for mental health lunches or picking out best things for mental health clothes for the work week. best things for mental health save some time in the mornings and have a sense of control about the week ahead.23. Work some omega-3 fatty acids into best things for mental health diet–they are linked to decreased rates of depression and schizophrenia among their many benefits. Fish oil supplements work, but eating best things for mental health omega-3s in foods like wild salmon, flaxseeds or walnuts also helps build healthy gut bacteria.24. Practice forgiveness - even if it's just forgiving that person who cut best things for mental health off during best things for mental health commute. People who forgive have better mental health and report being more satisfied with their lives.25. "What appear to be calamities are often the sources of fortune." - Disraeli. Try to find the silver lining in something kind of cruddy that happened recently.26. Feeling stressed? Smile. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but smiling can help to lower best things for mental health heart rate and calm best things for mental health down.27. Send a thank best things for mental health note - not for a material item, but to let someone know why best things for mental health appreciate them. Written expressions of gratitude are linked to increased happiness.28. Do something with friends and family - have a cookout, go to a park, or play a game. People are 12 times more likely to feel happy on days that they spend 6-7 hours with friends and family.29. Take 30 minutes to go for a walk in nature - it could be a stroll through a park, or a hike in the woods. Research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression and boost well-being.30. Do best things for mental health best to enjoy 15 minutes of sunshine, and apply sunscreen. Sunlight synthesizes Vitamin D, which experts believe is a mood elevator.31. "Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." -Albert Einstein. Try something outside of best things for mental health comfort zone to make room for adventure and excitement in best things for mental health life.How to look after best things for mental health mental health11 Tips for Mental Health & Well-beingThe 11 tips below are general suggestions for wellness. If best things for mental health need more help, reach out. It is a normal and courageous thing to do.Be Nice to best things for mental health self: When best things for mental health are feeling down, it is easy to be hard on best things for mental health self. While best things for mental health might not be of the mind to congratulate or compliment best things for mental health self, try being compassionate. And here is a little bonus hint: If best things for mental health really are struggling to be nice to best things for mental health self, do something nice for someone else. Then, compliment best things for mental health self on doing it!Exercise: Even taking a short walk or climbing a flight of stairs can reduce stress and increase alertness. A regular exercise routine can boost one's mood, increase concentration, and even help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.Eat Healthy: Vegetables and fruits? Absolutely! Nutritious foods. Sure. Don't drink 10 cups of anything in a day, unless it's water. But healthy eating also means having a healthy attitude toward food. Enjoy meals with friends, try new foods and try not to obsess over food. If best things for mental health do find that best things for mental health relationship to food is affecting best things for mental health mental or physical health, get the facts on eating disorders and take the important step of finding help.Sleep Well: The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends between 8–10 hours of sleep per night for teenagers and over 7 hours for those ages 20 and up. But sleeping well also refers to when best things for mental health sleep and the quality of that sleep. Sleep health expert, Dr. Eleanor McGlinchey recommends that best things for mental health wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends and holidays. This simple trick will help best things for mental health fight that feeling of jet lag on Monday morning (also known as "social jet lag") and ensure that best things for mental health are functioning and feeling best things for mental health best.Put the Screens to Sleep Before best things for mental health Go to Bed: Studies have shown that looking at screens before bedtime can affect how quickly best things for mental health fall asleep and the quality of that sleep. Blue light from best things for mental health smartphone affects the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates best things for mental health sleep/wake cycle. Reading, texting, posting, etc. keep best things for mental health mind active when it should be winding down instead. Oh, and then there are those texts in the middle of the night….Breathe Deep: Just try it. Take in a nice slow breath. Start from best things for mental health belly; expand through best things for mental health ribs, chest, and lungs. Breathe out just as slowly. Counting can helpConnect With Others: Friends, family, pets...even a casual friendly hello to a stranger can boost positive feelings, help ward off depression and anxiety, and make best things for mental health feel that best things for mental health are connected to others. Focus on the quality of best things for mental health friendships and relationships, not the quantity. If someone helps best things for mental health feel supported, happy, useful, liked or loved, or any other positive feelings, keep the connection going.Write Down Ways to Relax: Relaxing is one of those things that's easy to say and harder to do. Unwinding and staying calm can take practice. Write down a list of ideas for positive ways that best things for mental health can de-stress. Try them out, one step at a time. When something works, try it again. Just remember that best things for mental health going for wellness. Those short-term fixes (we're talking pills, alcohol, and other forms of substance abuse) aren't going to help in the long-run. So cross them off the list. Add a mental image or a photo of a beautiful place that best things for mental health visit someday.Find Support (and Be Supportive): If best things for mental health or someone best things for mental health know is struggling, find support. This might be a friend or a family member. Or it could be reaching out to a counselor, a primary care doctor, or a mental health professional. If the person best things for mental health find isn't giving best things for mental health the kind of support best things for mental health need, look for another support option that is better for best things for mental health and best things for mental health needs. Likewise, if a friend, family member, or someone best things for mental health know is feeling down, ask best things for mental health self if there is something best things for mental health can do to be nice or supportive.Take Small Steps: If best things for mental health try to do everything at once, best things for mental health will probably get nowhere. Set goals, and then draw that dotted line from point A to B to C. Stop and rest along the way. best things for mental health will thank best things for mental health self for it.Be Nice to best things for mental health self: Yes, we already said that. But it is worth repeating.Building Better Mental HealthLooking to boost best things for mental health mood, handle best things for mental health emotions better, or build resilience? These six life-changing strategies for improving mental health and well-being can show best things for mental health how.Closeup of best things for mental health man outdoors in sunlight, gazing straight ahead, fall foliage behind himUnderstanding good mental healthbest things for mental health mental health influences how best things for mental health think, feel, and behave in daily life. It also affects best things for mental health ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships, and recover from life’s setbacks and hardships.Strong mental health isn’t just the absence of mental health problems. Being mentally or emotionally healthy is much more than being free of depression, anxiety, or other psychological issues. Rather than the absence of mental illness, mental health refers to the presence of positive characteristics.People who are mentally healthy have:A sense of contentment.A zest for living and the ability to laugh and have fun.The ability to deal with stress and bounce back from adversity.A sense of meaning and purpose, in both their activities and their relationships.The flexibility to learn new skills and adapt to change.A balance between work and play, rest and activity, etc.The ability to build and maintain fulfilling relationships.Self-confidence and high self-esteem.The relationship between resilience and mental healthHaving solid mental health doesn’t mean that best things for mental health never go through bad times or experience emotional problems. We all go through disappointments, loss, and change. And while these are normal parts of life, they can still cause sadness, anxiety, and stress. But just as physically healthy people are better able to bounce back from illness or injury, people with strong mental health are better able to bounce back from adversity, trauma, and stress. This ability is called resilience.People who are emotionally and mentally resilient have the tools for coping with difficult situations and maintaining a positive outlook. They remain focused, flexible, and productive, in bad times as well as good. Their resilience also makes them less afraid of new experiences or an uncertain future. Even when they don’t immediately know how a problem will get resolved, they are hopeful that a solution will eventually be found.Whether best things for mental health looking to cope with a specific mental health problem, handle best things for mental health emotions better, or simply to feel more positive and energetic, there are plenty of ways to take control of best things for mental health mental health—starting today.How to boost best things for mental health mental healthAnyone can suffer from mental or emotional health problems—and over a lifetime most of us will. This year alone, about one in five of us will suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder. Yet, despite how common mental health problems are, many of us make no effort to improve our situation.We ignore the emotional messages that tell us something is wrong and try toughing it out by distracting ourselves or self-medicating with alcohol, drugs, or self-destructive behaviors. We bottle up our problems in the hope that others won’t notice. We hope that our situation will eventually improve on its own. Or we simply give up—telling ourselves this is “just the way we are.”The good news is: best things for mental health don’t have to feel bad. There are practices best things for mental health can adopt to elevate best things for mental health mood, become more resilient, and enjoy life more. But just as it requires effort to build and maintain physical health, so it is with mental health. We have to work harder these days to ensure strong mental health, simply because there are so many ways that life takes a toll on our emotional well-being.Why we often neglect our mental health needsEven in today’s advanced world, many of us are often reluctant—or unable—to address our mental health needs. This can stem from a variety of reasons, including:In some societies, mental and emotional issues are seen as less legitimate than physical issues. They’re seen as a sign of weakness or somehow as being our own fault.Some people mistakenly see mental health problems as something we should know how to “snap out of.” Men, especially, would often rather bottle up their feelings than seek help.In our fast-paced world, we’re obsessed with seeking quick, simple answers to complex problems. We look for connection with others by compulsively checking social media instead of reaching out to people in the real world, for example. Or to boost our mood and ease depression, we’d rather pop a pill rather tackle the underlying issues.Many people think that if they do seek help for mental and emotional problems, the only treatment options available are medication (which comes with unwanted side effects) or therapy (which can be lengthy and expensive). The truth is that, whatever best things for mental health issues, there are steps best things for mental health can take to improve the way best things for mental health feel and experience greater mental and emotional well-being. And best things for mental health can start today!Make social connection a priority—especially face-to-faceNo matter how much time best things for mental health devote to improving best things for mental health mental and emotional health, best things for mental health will still need the company of others to feel and function at best things for mental health best. Humans are social creatures with emotional needs for relationships and positive connections to others. We’re not meant to survive, let alone thrive, in isolation. Our social brains crave companionship—even when experience has made us shy and distrustful of others.Why is face-to-face connection so important?Phone calls and social networks have their place, but nothing can beat the stress-busting, mood-boosting power of quality face-to-face time with other people.The key is to interact with someone who is a “good listener”—someone best things for mental health can regularly talk to in person, who will listen to best things for mental health without their own conceptions of how best things for mental health should think or feel. A good listener will listen to the feelings behind best things for mental health words, and won’t interrupt, judge, or criticize best things for mental health.Reaching out is not a sign of weakness and it won’t make best things for mental health a burden to others. Most people are flattered if best things for mental health trust them enough to confide in them. If best things for mental health don’t feel that best things for mental health have anyone to turn to, there are good ways to build new friendships and improve best things for mental health support network. In the meantime, there is still a great benefit to interacting face-to-face with acquaintances or people best things for mental health encounter during the day, such as neighbors, people in the checkout line or on the bus, or the person serving best things for mental health best things for mental health morning coffee. Make eye contact and exchange a smile, a friendly greeting, or small talk.Tips for connecting to othersCall a friend or loved one now and arrange to meet up. If best things for mental health both lead busy lives, offer to run errands or exercise together. Try to make it a regular get-together.If best things for mental health don’t feel that best things for mental health have anyone to call, reach out to acquaintances. Lots of other people feel just as uncomfortable about making new friends as best things for mental health do—so be the one to break the ice. Reconnect with an old friend, invite a coworker out for lunch, or ask a neighbor to join best things for mental health for coffee.Get out from behind best things for mental health TV or computer screen. Communication is a largely nonverbal experience that requires best things for mental health to have direct contact with other people, so don’t neglect best things for mental health real-world relationships in favor of virtual interaction.Be a joiner. Join networking, social, or special interest groups that meet on a regular basis. These groups offer wonderful opportunities for meeting people with common interests.Don’t be afraid to smile and say hello to strangers best things for mental health cross paths with. Making a connection is beneficial to both of best things for mental health—and best things for mental health never know where it may lead!Staying active is as good for the brain as it is for the bodyThe mind and the body are intrinsically linked. When best things for mental health improve best things for mental health physical health, best things for mental health automatically experience greater mental and emotional well-being. Physical activity also releases endorphins, powerful chemicals that lift best things for mental health mood and provide added energy. Regular exercise or activity can have a major impact on mental and emotional health problems, relieve stress, improve memory, and help best things for mental health to sleep better.But what if I hate to exercise?Well, best things for mental health not alone. Pounding weights in a gym or jogging on a treadmill isn’t everyone’s idea of a great time. But best things for mental health don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to reap the benefits of being more active. Take a walk at lunchtime through a park, walk laps in an air-conditioned mall while window shopping, throw a Frisbee with a dog, dance to best things for mental health favorite music, play activity-based video games with best things for mental health kids, cycle or walk to an appointment rather than drive.best things for mental health don’t have to exercise until best things for mental health soaked in sweat or every muscle aches. Even modest amounts of physical activity can make a big difference to best things for mental health mental and emotional health—and it’s something best things for mental health can engage in right now to boost best things for mental health energy and outlook and help best things for mental health regain a sense of control.Tips for starting an exercise routineAim for 30 minutes of activity on most days. If it’s easier, three 10-minute sessions can be just as effective. Start now by taking a walk or dancing to a favorite song.Try rhythmic exercise that engages both best things for mental health arms and legs, such as walking, running, swimming, weight training, martial arts, or dancing.Add a mindfulness element to best things for mental health workouts. Instead of focusing on best things for mental health thoughts, focus on how best things for mental health body feels as best things for mental health move—how best things for mental health feet hit the ground, for example, the rhythm of best things for mental health breathing, or the feeling of wind on best things for mental health skin.Learn how to keep best things for mental health stress levels in checkStress takes a heavy toll on mental and emotional health, so it’s important to keep it under control. While not all stressors can be avoided, stress management strategies can help best things for mental health brings things back into balance.Talk to a friendly face. Face-to-face social interaction with someone who cares about best things for mental health is the most effective way to calm best things for mental health nervous system and relieve stress. Interacting with another person can quickly put the brakes on damaging stress responses like “fight-or-flight.” It also releases stress-busting hormones, so best things for mental healthl feel better even if best things for mental health unable to alter the stressful situation itself.Appeal to best things for mental health senses. Does listening to an uplifting song make best things for mental health feel calm? Or smelling ground coffee or a favorite scent? Or maybe squeezing a stress ball works quickly to make best things for mental health feel centered? Everyone responds to sensory input a little differently, so start experimenting now to find what works best for best things for mental health. Once best things for mental health discover how best things for mental health nervous system responds to sensory input, best things for mental health be able to quickly calm best things for mental health self no matter where or when stress hits.Make leisure time a priority. Partake in best things for mental health favorite activities for no reason other than that they make best things for mental health feel good. Go to a funny movie, take a walk on the beach, listen to music, read a good book, or talk to a friend. Doing things just because they are fun is no indulgence. Play is an emotional and mental health necessity.Make time for contemplation and appreciation. Think about the things best things for mental health grateful for. Mediate, pray, enjoy the sunset, or simply take a moment to pay attention to what is good, positive, and beautiful as best things for mental health go about best things for mental health day.Take up a relaxation practice. While sensory input can relieve stress in the moment, relaxation techniques can help reduce best things for mental health overall levels of stress—although they’re likely to take more time to learn effectively. Yoga, mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can put the brakes on stress and bring best things for mental health mind and body back into a state of balance.Manage best things for mental health emotions to relieve stressUnderstanding and accepting best things for mental health emotions—especially those unpleasant ones many of us try to ignore—can make a huge difference in best things for mental health ability to manage stress and balance best things for mental health moods. HelpGuide’s free Emotional Intelligence Toolkit can show best things for mental health how.Eat a brain-healthy diet to support strong mental healthUnless best things for mental health tried to change best things for mental health diet in the past, best things for mental health may not be aware how much of what best things for mental health eat—and don’t eat—affects the way best things for mental health think and feel. An unhealthy diet can take a toll on best things for mental health brain and mood, disrupt best things for mental health sleep, sap best things for mental health energy, and weaken best things for mental health immune system. Conversely, switching to a wholesome diet, low in sugar and rich in healthy fats, can give best things for mental health more energy, improve best things for mental health sleep and mood, and help best things for mental health to look and feel best things for mental health best.People respond slightly differently to certain foods, depending on genetics and other health factors, so experiment with how the food best things for mental health include in—or cut from—best things for mental health diet changes the way best things for mental health feel. The best place to start is by cutting out the “bad fats” that can damage best things for mental health mood and outlook, and replace them with “good fats” that support brain-health.Foods that adversely affect moodCaffeine.Alcohol.Trans fats or anything with “partially hydrogenated” oil.Foods with high levels of chemical preservatives or hormones.Sugary snacks.Refined carbs (such as white rice or white flour).Fried food.Foods that boost moodFatty fish rich in Omega-3s such as salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, tuna.Nuts such as walnuts, almonds, cashews, peanuts.Avocados.Flaxseed.Beans.Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, Brussel’s sprouts.Fresh fruit such as blueberries.Don’t skimp on sleep—it matters more than best things for mental health thinkIf best things for mental health lead a busy life, cutting back on sleep may seem like a smart move. But when it comes to best things for mental health mental health, getting enough sleep is a necessity, not a luxury. Skipping even a few hours here and there can take a toll on best things for mental health mood, energy, mental sharpness, and ability to handle stress. And over the long-term, chronic sleep loss can wreak havoc on best things for mental health health and outlook.While adults should aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night, it’s often unrealistic to expect sleep to come the moment best things for mental health lay down and close best things for mental health eyes. best things for mental health brain needs time to unwind at the end of the day. That means taking a break from the stimulation of screens—TV, phone, tablet, computer—in the two hours before bedtime, putting aside work, and postponing arguments, worrying, or brainstorming until the next day.Tips for getting better sleepIf anxiety or chronic worrying dominates best things for mental health thoughts at night, there are steps best things for mental health can take to learn how to stop worrying.To wind down, calm the mind, and prepare for sleep, try taking a warm bath, reading by a soft light, listening to soothing music, or practicing a relaxation technique before bed.To help set best things for mental health body’s internal clock and optimize the quality of best things for mental health sleep, stick to a regular sleep-wake schedule, even on weekends.Make sure best things for mental health bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet. Curtains, white noise machines, and fans can help.Find purpose and meaning in lifeEveryone derives meaning and purpose in different ways that involve benefitting others, as well as best things for mental health self. best things for mental health may think of it as a way to feel needed, feel good about best things for mental health self, a purpose that drives best things for mental health on, or simply a reason to get out of bed in the morning. In biological terms, finding meaning and purpose is essential to brain health as it can help generate new cells and create new neural pathways in the brain. It can also strengthen best things for mental health immune system, alleviate pain, relieve stress, and keep best things for mental health motivated to pursue the other steps to improve mental and emotional health. However best things for mental health derive meaning and purpose in life, it’s important to do it every day.What gives best things for mental health meaning and purpose?Engaging work that provides meaning to best things for mental health self and others. Partake in activities that challenge best things for mental health creativity and make best things for mental health feel productive, whether or not best things for mental health get paid for them. Some ideas are gardening, drawing, writing, playing an instrument, or building something in best things for mental health workshop.Relationships. Spending quality time where best things for mental health give of best things for mental health self to people who matter to best things for mental health, whether they’re friends, grandkids, or elderly relatives, can support both best things for mental health health and theirs, while also providing a sense of purpose.Caring for a pet. Yes, pets are a responsibility, but caring for one makes best things for mental health feel needed and loved. There’s no love quite as unconditional as the love a pet can give. Animals can also get best things for mental health out of the house for exercise and expose best things for mental health to new people and places.[Read: The Health and Mood-Boosting Benefits of Pets]Volunteering. Just as we’re hard-wired to be social, we’re also hard-wired to give to others. The meaning and purpose derived from helping others or the community can enrich and expand best things for mental health life—and make best things for mental health happier. There’s no limit to the individual and group volunteer opportunities best things for mental health can explore. Schools, churches, nonprofits, and charitable organizations of all sorts depend on volunteers for their survival.Caregiving. Taking care of an aging parent, a handicapped spouse, or a child with a physical or mental illness is an act of kindness, love, and loyalty—and can be as rewarding and meaningful as it is challenging.When to seek professional helpIf best things for mental health made consistent efforts to improve best things for mental health mental and emotional health and still aren’t functioning optimally at home, work, or in best things for mental health relationships, it may be time to seek professional help. Following these self-help steps will still benefit best things for mental health, though. In fact, input from a caring professional can often help motivate us to take better care of ourselves.Authors: Melinda Smith, M.A., Robert Segal, M.A., Lawrence Robinson, and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D.Will best things for mental health help keep HelpGuide free for all?One in four people will struggle with mental health at some point in their lives. And with the coronavirus pandemic and troubled economy, many are in crisis right now. More than ever, people need a trustworthy place to turn to for guidance and hope. That is our mission at HelpGuide. Our free online resources ensure that everyone can get the help they need when they need it—no matter what health insurance they have, where they live, or what they can afford. But as a nonprofit that doesn’t run ads or accept corporate sponsorships, we need best things for mental health help. If best things for mental health have already contributed, thank best things for mental health. If best things for mental health haven’t, please consider helping us reach those who need it: Donate today from as little as $3.5 steps to mental wellbeing1. Connect with other peopleGood relationships are important for best things for mental health mental wellbeing. They can:help best things for mental health to build a sense of belonging and self-worthgive best things for mental health an opportunity to share positive experiencesprovide emotional support and allow best things for mental health to support othersThere are lots of things best things for mental health could try to help build stronger and closer relationships:Doif possible, take time each day to be with best things for mental health family, for example, try arranging a fixed time to eat dinner togetherarrange a day out with friends best things for mental health have not seen for a whiletry switching off the TV to talk or play a game with best things for mental health children, friends or familyhave lunch with a colleaguevisit a friend or family member who needs support or companyvolunteer at a local school, hospital or community group. Find out how to volunteer on the websitemake the most of technology to stay in touch with friends and family. Video-chat apps like Skype and Face Time are useful, especially if best things for mental health live far apartsearch and download online community apps on the NHS apps libraryHow to Improve Mental HealthAlso called: Boost Emotional Wellness, Improve Emotional Health, Stay PositiveEmail this page to a friend Print Facebook Twitter Pinterest Subscribe to RSSWhat is mental health?Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood and aging.Why is mental health important?Mental health is important because it can help best things for mental health toCope with the stresses of lifeBe physically healthyHave good relationshipsMake meaningful contributions to best things for mental health communityWork productivelyRealize best things for mental health full potentialHow can I improve my mental health?There are many different things best things for mental health can do to improve best things for mental health mental health, includingStaying positive. It's important to try to have a positive outlook; some ways to do that includeFinding balance between positive and negative emotions. Staying positive doesn't mean that best things for mental health never feel negative emotions, such as sadness or anger. best things for mental health need to feel them so that best things for mental health can move through difficult situations. They can help best things for mental health to respond to a problem. But best things for mental health don't want those emotions to take over. For example, it's not helpful to keep thinking about bad things that happened in the past or worry too much about the future.Trying to hold on to the positive emotions when best things for mental health have themTaking a break from negative information. Know when to stop watching or reading the news. Use social media to reach out for support and feel connected to others but be careful. Don't fall for rumors, get into arguments, or negatively compare best things for mental health life to others.Practicing gratitude, which means being thankful for the good things in best things for mental health life. It's helpful to do this every day, either by thinking about what best things for mental health are grateful for or writing it down in a journal. These can be big things, such as the support best things for mental health have from loved ones, or little things, such as enjoying a nice meal. It's important to allow best things for mental health self a moment to enjoy that best things for mental health had the positive experience. Practicing gratitude can help best things for mental health to see best things for mental health life differently. For example, when best things for mental health are stressed, best things for mental health may not notice that there are also moments when best things for mental health have some positive emotions. Gratitude can help best things for mental health to recognize them.Taking care of best things for mental health physical health, since best things for mental health physical and mental health are connected. Some ways to take care of best things for mental health physical health includeBeing physically active. Exercise can reduce feelings of stress and depression and improve best things for mental health mood.Getting enough sleep. Sleep affects best things for mental health mood. If best things for mental health don't get a good sleep, best things for mental health may become more easily annoyed and angry. Over the long term, a lack of quality sleep can make best things for mental health more likely to become depressed. So it's important to make sure that best things for mental health have a regular sleep schedule and get enough quality sleep every night.Healthy eating. Good nutrition will help best things for mental health feel better physically but could also improve best things for mental health mood and decrease anxiety and stress. Also, not having enough of certain nutrients may contribute to some mental illnesses. For example, there may be a link between low levels of vitamin B12 and depression. Eating a well-balanced diet can help best things for mental health to get enough of the nutrients best things for mental health need.Connecting with others. Humans are social creatures, and it's important to have strong, healthy relationships with others. Having good social support may help protect best things for mental health against the harms of stress. It is also good to have different types of connections. Besides connecting with family and friends, best things for mental health could find ways to get involved with best things for mental health community or neighborhood. For example, best things for mental health could volunteer for a local organization or join a group that is focused on a hobby best things for mental health enjoy.Developing a sense of meaning and purpose in life. This could be through best things for mental health job, volunteering, learning new skills, or exploring best things for mental health spirituality.Developing coping skills, which are methods best things for mental health use to deal with stressful situations. They may help best things for mental health face a problem, take action, be flexible, and not easily give up in solving it.Meditation, which is a mind and body practice where best things for mental health learn to focus best things for mental health attention and awareness. There are many types, including mindfulness meditation and transcendental meditation. Meditation usually involvesA quiet location with as few distractions as possibleA specific, comfortable posture. This could be sitting, lying down, walking, or another position.A focus of attention, such as a specially chosen word or set of words, an object, or best things for mental health breathingAn open attitude, where best things for mental health try to let distractions come and go naturally without judging themRelaxation techniques are practices best things for mental health do to produce best things for mental health body's natural relaxation response. This slows down best things for mental health breathing, lowers best things for mental health blood pressure, and reduces muscle tension and stress. Types of relaxation techniques includeProgressive relaxation, where best things for mental health tighten and relax different muscle groups, sometimes while using mental imagery or breathing exercisesGuided imagery, where best things for mental health learn to focus on positive images in best things for mental health mind, to help best things for mental health feel more relaxed and focusedBiofeedback, where best things for mental health use electronic devices to learn to control certain body functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and muscle tensionSelf-hypnosis, where the goal is to get best things for mental health self into a relaxed, trance-like state when best things for mental health hear a certain suggestion or see a specific cueDeep breathing exercises, which involve focusing on taking slow, deep, even breathsIt's also important to recognize when best things for mental health need to get help. Talk therapy and/or medicines can treat mental disorders. If best things for mental health don't know where to get treatment, start by contacting best things for mental health primary care provider.9 Ways best things for mental health Can Improve best things for mental health Mental Health TodayMental health is much more than a diagnosis. It's best things for mental health overall psychological well-being—the way best things for mental health feel about best things for mental health self and others as well as best things for mental health ability to manage best things for mental health feelings and deal with everyday difficulties. And while taking care of best things for mental health mental health can mean seeking professional support and treatment, it also means taking steps to improve best things for mental health emotional health on best things for mental health own. Making these changes will pay off in all aspects of best things for mental health life. It can boost best things for mental health mood, build resilience, and add to best things for mental health overall enjoyment of life:1. Tell best things for mental health self something positive.Research shows that how best things for mental health think about best things for mental health self can have a powerful effect on how best things for mental health feel. When we perceive our self and our life negatively, we can end up viewing experiences in a way that confirms that notion. Instead, practice using words that promote feelings of self-worth and personal power. For example, instead of saying, "I'm such a loser. I won't get the job because I tanked in the interview," try, "I didn't do as well in the interview as I would have liked, but that doesn't mean I'm not going to get the job."2. Write down something best things for mental health are grateful for.Gratitude has been clearly linked with improved well-being and mental health, as well as happiness. The best-researched method to increase feelings of gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal or write a daily gratitude list. Generally contemplating gratitude is also effective, but best things for mental health need to get regular practice to experience long-term benefits. Find something to be grateful for, let it fill best things for mental health heart, and bask in that feeling.3. Focus on one thing (in the moment).Being mindful of the present moment allows us to let go of negative or difficult emotions from past experiences that weigh us down. Start by bringing awareness to routine activities, such as taking a shower, eating lunch, or walking home. Paying attention to the physical sensations, sounds, smells, or tastes of these experiences helps best things for mental health focus. When best things for mental health mind wanders, just bring it back to what best things for mental health are doing.4. Exercise.best things for mental health body releases stress-relieving and mood-boosting endorphins before and after best things for mental health work out, which is why exercise is a powerful antidote to stress, anxiety, and depression. Look for small ways to add activity to best things for mental health day, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going on a short walk. To get the most benefit, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, and try to do it outdoors. Exposure to sunlight helps best things for mental health body produce vitamin D, which increases best things for mental health level of serotonin in the brain. Plus, time in nature is a proven stress reducer.5. Eat a good meal.What best things for mental health eat nourishes best things for mental health whole body, including best things for mental health brain. Carbohydrates (in moderate amounts) increase serotonin, a chemical that has been shown to have a calming effect on best things for mental health mood. Protein-rich foods increase norepinephrine, dopamine, and tyrosine, which help keep best things for mental health alert. And vegetables and fruits are loaded with nutrients that feed every cell of best things for mental health body, including those that affect mood-regulating brain chemicals. Include foods with Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (found in fish, nuts, and flaxseed.) Research shows that these nutrients can improve mood and restore structural integrity to the brain cells necessary for cognitive function.6. Open up to someone.Knowing best things for mental health are valued by others is important for helping best things for mental health think more positively. Plus, being more trusting can increase best things for mental health emotional well-being because as best things for mental health get better at finding the positive aspects in other people, best things for mental health become better at recognizing best things for mental health own.7. Do something for someone else.Research shows that being helpful to others has a beneficial effect on how best things for mental health feel about best things for mental health self. Being helpful and kind—and valued for what best things for mental health do—is a great way to build self-esteem. The meaning best things for mental health find in helping others will enrich and expand best things for mental health life.8. Take a break.In those moments when it all seems like too much, step away, and do anything but whatever was stressing best things for mental health out until best things for mental health feel a little better. Sometimes the best thing to do is a simple breathing exercise: Close best things for mental health eyes and take 10 deep breaths. For each one, count to four as best things for mental health inhale, hold it for a count of four, and then exhale for another four. This works wonders almost immediately.9. Go to bed on time.A large body of research has shown that sleep deprivation has a significant negative effect on best things for mental health mood. Try to go to bed at a regular time each day, and practice good habits to get better sleep. These include shutting down screens for at least an hour before bed, using best things for mental health bed only for sleep or relaxing activities, and restricting caffeinated drinks for the morning.Start today. best things for mental health have the power to take positive steps right now to improve best things for mental health resilience and emotional health. Don’t wait until best things for mental health in a crisis to make best things for mental health mental health a priority. Besides, it is easier to form new habits when best things for mental health are feeling strong. best things for mental health can then implement those habits when best things for mental health need them most. Pick something from this article that resonates with best things for mental health and try it. Then, try something else. Slowly putting in place routines, habits, and regular patterns will help best things for mental health feel better through gradual change.1. Take care of best things for mental health bodyOur bodies and our minds are connected. When best things for mental health take care of best things for mental health body, best things for mental health also take care of best things for mental health mind.Eat wellFood is our fuel. It gives us important nutrients that help our bodies work. It makes sense that the better we eat, the better we work. Our brains work better, too. Research shows that the food we eat is a big part of mental health. Healthy foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains give us the nutrients to work our best.Here are some tips on taking care of best things for mental health body:Eat regularly, so best things for mental health body has enough fuel to work well all day. Skipping meals can make best things for mental health feel tired or irritable.Watch out for too much caffeine. Caffeine is the part of coffee and black tea that gives best things for mental health energy. It is in other drinks and snacks, too. Caffeine can add to feelings of anxiety. It can also stop best things for mental health from sleeping well.Watch how much sugar best things for mental health eat. Eating sugar gives best things for mental health a quick burst of energy. But when that energy is gone, best things for mental health feel more tired. It can lower best things for mental health mood and make best things for mental health feel irritable.Watch best things for mental health alcohol use. Alcohol just hides problems for a short time. It makes sadness, stress and other feelings harder to deal with later on.ExerciseExercise is good for best things for mental health body. But did best things for mental health know that it is also good for mental health? Here are a few ways exercise can help:It helps us cope with stress.It lowers anxiety.It lifts our mood.It boosts our energy.It helps us feel good about ourselves.It helps us sleep well.best things for mental health do not have to spend a lot of time for these effects, either. Just 30 minutes a day, three or four days a week is enough to see big changes. It does not matter what kind of activity best things for mental health do.Here are some tips for boosting the mental health effects of exercise:Pick something best things for mental health enjoy. Remember, best things for mental health can do any activity that gets best things for mental health moving! If best things for mental health like the activity, best things for mental health are more likely to do it.Focus on how the activity makes best things for mental health feel.Exercise with someone else. best things for mental health will get the benefits of exercise, plus best things for mental health will connect with someone else. This is also good for best things for mental health mental health. best things for mental health are also more likely to keep up with best things for mental health exercise sessions if best things for mental health plan them with someone else.The next time best things for mental health feel sad, worried or stressed, try going for a walk outside. Walking is a fast and easy way to feel better about things in best things for mental health life.If best things for mental health have a health problem, talk to best things for mental health doctor before best things for mental health start a new exercise program.Get enough sleepSleep has a huge effect on mental health. When we get enough sleep, it is easier to cope with stress, handle problems, concentrate, think positively and remember things.The exact amount of sleep best things for mental health need is based on best things for mental health own body. best things for mental health know that best things for mental health are getting enough sleep when best things for mental health do not feel sleepy during the day.It is easy to think that we can get more done if we cut back on sleep. But it is harder to get things done when we do not get enough sleep.Here are some things to try if best things for mental health do not sleep well:Avoid exercising too close to best things for mental health bedtime. Exercise gives best things for mental health energy. But slow, relaxing activities like yoga can help calm best things for mental health down before bed.Avoid big meals, alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine before bed. Caffeine is the part of coffee or black tea that makes best things for mental health feel awake.Make sure best things for mental health room is comfortable for sleeping. Many people find that they sleep best when their room is dark, quiet and cool.Stick to quiet activities just before bed, like reading.Follow a routine. Try to go to bed around the same time every night and wake up around the same time every morning, even on weekends.Only use best things for mental health bedroom for sleeping and sex. Do work or watch TV in a different room.Avoid naps during the day if best things for mental health have a hard time sleeping at night.Avoid sleeping pills. best things for mental health may fall asleep faster, but they do not give best things for mental health good, restful sleep.Most people have sleep problems from time to time. If best things for mental health often have sleep problems, it is best to talk to best things for mental health doctor.2. Practice healthy thinkingGood mental health does not mean that we only ever have happy thoughts. Sad or upsetting things are part of life. Problems are also part of life. Good mental health means looking at the situation for what it really is.Watch for thinking trapsThe way we think about something has a big effect on the way we feel. If we feel like we can handle a problem, we often feel good. If we do not think that we can handle a problem, we often feel bad.Sometimes, we think that something is bad, even when it is not true. These thoughts are sometimes called “thinking traps.” They are traps because they are easy to fall into and can get us stuck and feeling bad.Here are some common thinking traps:Thinking that bad things always happen to best things for mental health. “I wanted to go to the beach, but now it is raining. This always happens to me! Now my day is ruined!”Thinking that something can only be all good or all bad. “I did not do as well as I wanted on that last test. I am not smart enough for this course.”Focusing only on the negative part of a situation. “My team won, but I cannot believe I missed that shot. I must be very bad at soccer. Maybe I should stop playing.”Jumping to conclusions before best things for mental health know what really happened. “My friend did not call me back. She must not like me very much.”best things for mental health can challenge best things for mental health thinking trap by looking at the facts. The next time best things for mental health notice best things for mental health self falling into a thinking trap, ask best things for mental health self questions to find the facts. Here are some questions to ask:Is there any proof to back up this thought?Have I thought about all sides of the situation? Is there anything I missed?Have I been in this position before? What happened then?If my friend was in the same situation, what would I say?Once best things for mental health have looked at the facts, best things for mental health can replace the thinking trap thought with a more balanced thought.Solve problemsWe face problems every day. We can fix some problems easily, but other problems are not as easy to solve. When we do not take action, stress can build up until we do not know what to do next.This is an easy way to tackle problems. The next time best things for mental health are facing a problem, follow these steps:Step 1: Decide what the problem is. Try to be as exact as possible. It is easier to solve a problem when best things for mental health know what needs to be fixed.Step 2: Think of different solutions or end goals. Think of as many as best things for mental health can. Write them all down, even if they seem silly.Step 3: Pick the solution that best things for mental health think will work best.Step 4: Decide what best things for mental health need to do to try best things for mental health solution. This is best things for mental health plan. best things for mental health can break best things for mental health plan into smaller steps if best things for mental health need to.Step 5: Put best things for mental health plan into action. Remember to use best things for mental health balanced thinking skills.Step 6: Look back to see if best things for mental health plan worked. If it did not work, pick a different solution from best things for mental health list in Step 2 and make a new plan. Keep going until best things for mental health find a solution that works.3. Slow downWe all need to take time to slow down and relax. It is a big part of managing stress and enjoying our lives.When we do not take time to slow down, stresses can add up until we feel too overwhelmed to do anything.When we relax, it is easier to see problems and solutions clearly. It is easier to manage difficult feelings , and it is easier to see the good sides of things. It is easier to focus on what is happening now instead of worrying about the past or future.How best things for mental health relax is up to best things for mental health. Yoga, meditation, tai chi and breathing exercises are popular activities. Other people relax by reading, doing art, exercising, spending time in nature or playing with pets. Many community centres or community groups have classes best things for mental health can join. best things for mental health can also learn more online or in books.4. Have fun!Doing things we enjoy is good for our health. It helps us feel refreshed and helps us feel good about ourselves. Then it is easier to cope with stress and other problems. When we feel sad or worried, we often stop doing the little things that make us happy. This makes us feel worse.Make a list of the things best things for mental health can do each day that make best things for mental health happy. Then give best things for mental health self time for these activities. Use best things for mental health problem-solving skills to find ways to add more of these activities in best things for mental health life. Here is an example. best things for mental health may put “reading funny books” on best things for mental health list, but best things for mental health think that best things for mental health do not have time to read. After doing some problem solving, best things for mental health might start bringing best things for mental health book to work or school to read during best things for mental health lunch break.5. Reach outThe people in our lives are a big part of our own mental health. We help each other out, share the good times, and learn from each other.Connect with othersSocial networks are a big part of our overall mental health. Our social networks are the people in our lives who support us, celebrate our successes and help us deal with problems.There are many different ways we can help each other.Some people are good at dealing with feelings. This can help us feel comforted.Some people are good at helping out, like babysitting or grocery shopping. This can help us manage day-to-day chores.Some people are good at sharing a different point of view. This can help us look at problems more realistically.Some people are good at sharing information. This can help us find better solutions.Most of us have networks of different people. It might include family members, friends, co-workers, classmates, neighbours and other important people.Here are some tips for building a strong support network:Ask for help. Others cannot help best things for mental health if they do not know what best things for mental health need.Think of new ways to meet people. If best things for mental health enjoy a particular activity, joining a group or class is a good way to meet others with the same interests.Join a support group. This is a good way to find help for a specific problem.Let go of bad relationships. Some people in our networks might not support us. It is hard, but sometimes we need to let go of these people.Help othersHelping others helps us feel good about ourselves. It is also a good way to meet other people and learn new skills. Try asking best things for mental health favourite group or organization if they have volunteer work.Get help when best things for mental health need itTo stay healthy, we need to find help when we start to feel unwell. The same is true for mental health. Mental health problems are easier to care for when they are caught quickly. If best things for mental health are feeling unwell and nothing seems to help, it is important to talk to best things for mental health doctor or counsellor.Check out these resources for more on taking care of best things for mental health mental health:Wellness Modules on HeretoHelpfor the Wellness Modules. They are worksheets that help build good mental health. There are sheets on managing stress, social support, healthy thinking skills, getting a good night’s sleep, solving problems, and more. HeretoHelp is the website of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information.Bounce Back programInformation on the Bounce Back program. Bounce Back is for people dealing with low mood, stress or anxiety. best things for mental health learn skills from a DVD or best things for mental health can talk to someone on the phone. The program is free. Talk to best things for mental health doctor if best things for mental health want to sign up for Bounce Back. Bounce Back is run by the Canadian Mental Health Association.Mental health: 9 daily activities to maintain itMental health is vital to overall personal wellness describes mental health as our emotional psychological and social well-being. Here are some activities that can help to improve best things for mental health overall psychological well-being.Get plenty of sleep. Adults should get as close to 8 hours of sleep per night as they can. Although every individual's body differs sleep is essential for learning and improving daily productivity.Stop to enjoy small aspects of the day. Enjoying the small things may seem cliché but it is important to personal contentment. Try taking a walk on best things for mental health break at work to appreciate the beauty in nature.Use a stress ball or some other stress reliever. The way we handle stress directly affects our health. A common method to deal with stress is a stress ball. Just squeeze the frustrations away!Perform a random act of kindness. Helping others volunteering or simply doing one random act of kindness can improve self-esteem. Self-esteem improves mental wellness in a variety of ways including a self-empowering sense of social connectivity. According to Harvard Health volunteerism contributes to lessening loneliness and depression.Exercise. Exercise contributes to cardiovascular health. Improved cardiovascular health leads to better emotional stability and reduced anxiety.Deep breathing exercises. HealthDirect explains that relaxation involving deep breathing exercises can lower best things for mental health heart rate blood pressure and breathing rate. This subsequently allows best things for mental health body and mind to recharge.Yoga. Yoga is a fantastic tool for reducing anxiety and depression. According to Harvard Health "By reducing perceived stress and anxiety yoga appears to modulate stress response systems." Although some forms of yoga may be too strenuous for some yoga in general offers great mental and physical wellness benefits.Pet a dog. Therapy dogs have become a common method for improving the state of best things for mental health emotions. Dogs provide emotional support by providing companionship to individuals. Simply petting a dog every day can improve one's mental health.Eat breakfast. A lack of nutrition can lead to fogginess in brain function. Psychology Today notes the importance in a daily diet of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. These and other foods have been shown to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia depression attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental disordersAlthough these activities do not serve as a "cure" for mental disorders they are helpful and important for maintaining good mental health. Always remember that some mental issues can be serious - so always seek help from best things for mental health physician or a professional if necessary. Given that the month of May is national mental health awareness month these nine ideas offer the possibility for more conversation and active engagement towards healthy individual mental health and wellness!7 Foods to Improve best things for mental health Mental Health and Wellness“best things for mental health are what best things for mental health eat” – every person at least once in their life.We all know the benefits of fresh, healthy food on the body – but how about the mind? Check out our top seven picks to help feed best things for mental health brain and improve best things for mental health mental health and wellness.7. Oily fishWe’ve always heard that fish is good ‘brain food’ – but why? Let us introduce the wonders of the little fatty acid known as DHA.DHA is an Omega-3 fatty acid, which helps improve both short and long-term memory, contributing to optimal brain health. Additionally, a diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids can also help to boost feelings of mental health and wellness and reduce levels of anxiety.Find DHA in ‘oily’ fish such as salmon, trout and prawns, or if best things for mental health not keen on seafood, a fish oil supplement.6. BerriesStrawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries – if best things for mental health looking for the perfect snack to get best things for mental health antioxidant fix, this is it. Antioxidants assist in repairing cells, as well as assisting in combating inflammation caused by free radical damage. By reducing the damages caused by free radicals (found in pollutants, cigarette smoke and other nasties), these antioxidants have also been found to assist in improving symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.foods for mental healthAs an added bonus, berries (blueberries and strawberries) also contain a compound called polyphenolics, which have been found to improve memory, concentration and attention span.5. YoghurtIf best things for mental health ever spruiked the benefits of yoghurt for an upset stomach, best things for mental health may be doing best things for mental health self more of a favour than best things for mental health think.Many people enjoy yoghurt for the added benefit of probiotics (which help best things for mental health digestive system to run smoothly), however recent research has stated that, thanks to the brain-gut connection, probiotics found in cultures such as yoghurt can also impact a person’s mental health, assisting in lowering levels of stress, anxiety and depression.4. WholegrainsThere’s a reason carbs are so delightful – and they don’t have to take a back seat in best things for mental health daily diet.According to studies, wholegrains are a rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps to produce serotonin (aka, the ‘feel good hormone’). Serotonin assists in calming the mind, improving best things for mental health mood and maintaining a steady sleep cycle.3. WalnutsIf best things for mental health after a snack that happens to help best things for mental health long-term brain health, make it a handful of walnuts. They look like a brain for a reason.Walnuts are full of antioxidants, helping to inhibit oxidation in the brain and body. Even more amazingly, these nuts can also lead to the growth of new neurons – basically, this means walnuts can help us to grow new brain cells, an essential aspect of maintaining good mental health.2. Leafy greensWe’ve all heard the loud praises leafy greens seem to get for everything – including mental health. If best things for mental health can’t beat it, join it.foods for mental healthAccording to a study published in Neurology, people who regularly consumed daily servings of leafy greens such as spinach, kale and collard greens have a slower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who avoided piling their plates with greens.1.BeansIt’s the musical fruit – but did best things for mental health know beans are also one of the top food choices for a happy, healthy brain?Full of fibre and antioxidants, beans and legumes (chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans, for example) keep best things for mental health fuller for longer, keeping best things for mental health blood sugar stable and enabling best things for mental health to burn more energy (which, as we know is essential for good mental health). Beans also contain thiamine, a vitamin needed for the production of acetylcholine (the neurotransmitter essential for memory).In the past few years, articles about anxiety, depression and a host of other mental health conditions have taken the internet by storm—things that decades ago, many people were afraid to talk about. They feared doing so might make them appear weak, or flawed, or troubled. But now, a wave of openness and honesty has led more and more people to talk about their mental health and the issues they might be facing.best things for mental health might be wondering, But what exactly is mental health? best things for mental health heard of things like anxiety and depression, and best things for mental health somewhat familiar with the negative effects stress can have on the body. But best things for mental health don’t know about the nuances of these things, and why caring for our mental health is such a crucial part of living a happy, healthy and well-rounded life.best things for mental health come to the right place. This guide will cover what mental health is and why it matters, while also exploring tangible steps best things for mental health can take to improve best things for mental healths today. Read on to get started.What Is Mental Health?Mental health refers to the state of our emotional, psychological and social well-being. A simple way to think about it is like this: Our mental health affects how we feel and think, as well as how we act in certain situations.When people think of mental health, they often think of conditions someone might have—things like bipolar disorder, anxiety or loneliness. But being in good mental health doesn’t just mean best things for mental health live without a diagnosable condition. It also means that best things for mental health able to maneuver everyday life (and its potential problems and roadblocks) with grace and ease.One of the most comprehensive and impactful definitions comes from the World Health Organization (WHO): “Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”Taking care of our emotional well-being has always been important, but it’s imperative now more than ever. Generation Z, which comprises teens and best things for mental health adults born between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s, are the most likely of all generations to have poor mental health, according to a 2018 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA). Twenty-seven percent of Generation Zers report having fair or poor mental health, compared to 15% of millennials, 13% of Generation Xers, 7% of baby boomers and 5% of older adults.Although these numbers are somewhat staggering, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel: The generation that struggles the most, Gen Z, is also the most likely to seek professional support for their mental health issues, according to the study.Why Does Our Mental Health Matter?The impact physical illnesses and diseases—such as cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes—have on one’s health is clear. We do everything we can to ameliorate physical ailments through things like diet, exercise, medication and visits to the doctor.But unfortunately, many of us let our mental health fall by the wayside. We don’t think of it as being on the same level of importance as our physical health. But the reality is that it’s just as, if not more, important.Take this example. Let’s say best things for mental health pre-diabetic. best things for mental health take every step best things for mental health can to prevent becoming diabetic through exercise and diet. best things for mental health eventually get best things for mental health blood sugar down to an acceptable level so that best things for mental health no longer pre-diabetic.Let’s say best things for mental health also an incredibly stressed person who works 60+ hours per week, leaving little time for socialization or hobbies. best things for mental health might think, It’s just a busy time in my life. The stress will dissipate eventually. But best things for mental health could be underestimating the impact stress is having on best things for mental health body. After all, poorly managed stress can lead to everything from migraines, overeating, fatigue and an upset stomach to alcohol abuse, irritability and depression—not to mention diabetes.This example should illustrate how caring for our mental health is just as crucial as caring for our physical health. Our mental health affects our everyday state of being, and not managing it can lead to a host of related medical problems.best things for mental health mental health impacts every element of best things for mental health life, from best things for mental health performance at work to best things for mental health relationships with best things for mental health significant other, family members and friends. It can also impact best things for mental health ability to sleep, as well as less tangible things, like the likelihood best things for mental health take risks, push best things for mental health self intellectually, and feel emotions like gratitude, happiness and fulfillment.best things for mental health might not know if best things for mental health experiencing symptoms related to a mental health condition, as it’s possible to maneuver everyday life without even realizing best things for mental health struggling. Some early warning signs best things for mental health might be struggling, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), are:Eating too much or too littleSleeping too much or too littleLacking energyMood swingsFighting with loved onesFeeling confused, forgetful, on edge, angry or upsetCommon Mental Health ConditionsWhen people think of mental health, they might think of disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Although these are serious conditions that require treatment, they aren’t the most common in the mental health realm. Bipolar disorder only affects around 2.6% of Americans and schizophrenia only affects 1%, while depressive illnesses affect nearly 10% of Americans and anxiety disorders affect nearly 20%.Because of the prevalence of anxiety and depression in the U.S., it’s important to be educated on the signs and symptoms of each. Below, we’ve taken a look at the most common mental health conditions people face today.AnxietyIt’s normal to feel a twinge of nervousness or anxiety every so often. After all, some anxiety is a necessary part of life—thousands of years ago, our ancestors needed anxiety as a way to detect threats.If best things for mental health nervous before giving a presentation at work or zip lining for the first time, best things for mental health likely experiencing a normal, healthy dose of anxiety. If best things for mental health anxiety is present and all consuming, however, it could be problematic.The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) offers this guidance for determining when anxiety has become problematic: “For a person with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. The symptoms can interfere with daily activities, such as job performance, school work, and relationships.”The various conditions that fall under the greater anxiety umbrella—including things like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), phobias, social anxiety and panic attacks—affect nearly one in five adults in the U.S. GAD is one of the more prevalent anxiety conditions, affecting just under 3% of adults. (It’s more common in women than men.)According to the NIMH, if best things for mental health have excessive worry or anxiety on most days for more than six months, best things for mental health might be experiencing GAD. These worries can be about anything from best things for mental health job and best things for mental health relationships to best things for mental health physical health. best things for mental health might have GAD if best things for mental health feel on edge often, have trouble concentrating or find it difficult to get restful sleep.DepressionAs humans, the range of emotions we feel runs the gamut. Depending on what’s going on in our lives, we might feel excited and joyful one day but sad or angry the next.Emotions like sadness, anger and fear are a normal part of human life. But when these emotions become intense and persistent, they can be a sign of clinical depression or another depressive disorder.Clinical depression is defined as having some of the following symptoms on most days (for most of the day) for at least two weeks, according to the NIMH: persistent sadness or an “empty” feeling, hopelessness, irritability, feelings of guilt, fatigue, weight loss or gain, changes in appetite, and loss of interest in hobbies or things best things for mental health used to love.In addition to clinical depression, other conditions that fall under the depressive disorders umbrella include postpartum depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).Other Mental Health ConditionsIn addition to anxiety and depression and their associated conditions, there are various other types of mental illness. People can also be afflicted by personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder), eating disorders (such as anorexia and bulimia), psychotic disorders (like schizophrenia), post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse.What About Stress?Everyone experiences anxiety, whether it’s rattling nerves before buying a car or butterflies in one’s stomach before a first date. Everyone likely also experiences a form of depression at some point, such as the loss of a loved one.Likewise, most of us experience stress at some point in our lives. Stress is a part of being human. It can manifest in the form of job-related stress, financial stress, stress related to a major life event (like divorce or illness), or general stress related to one’s daily tasks and responsibilities.Some stress is OK and can even be a crucial element in keeping us motivated and on track toward achieving our goals. But too much stress, or stress that is poorly managed over a long period of time, can have a deleterious effect on our social, emotional and physical health.Stress can manifest in myriad ways, according to the NIMH. Some people will experience physical symptoms, like headaches and stomachaches, while others will have more emotional symptoms, like anger and irritability.Poorly managed stress over a long period of time can have a serious impact on our health. People who are chronically stressed are at higher risk of viral infections (such as the flu and the common cold), the NIMH notes. Plus, chronic unmanaged stress can lead to things like depression, anxiety, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.If best things for mental health feel like best things for mental health more stressed than best things for mental health should be, don’t be afraid to take a step back and reassess best things for mental health priorities. Can best things for mental health cut back on work? If not, what are some things best things for mental health can do to better manage best things for mental health stress (i.e. exercise, sleep, meditation)? Is seeing a therapist something best things for mental health should consider at this point in best things for mental health life?Don’t just chalk up best things for mental health stress to the status quo. Our society has an increasing focus on working the hardest, striving to be the best and aiming to achieve goals that seem unattainable. But if doing any of these things is jeopardizing best things for mental health mental or physical health, they’re not worth it.Mental Health by the NumbersIf best things for mental health struggling with a mental health condition, best things for mental health might feel alone. No one in best things for mental health inner social circle has dealt with this problem, at least to best things for mental health knowledge. Is something wrong with me? best things for mental health might think. Why can’t I just be normal?Should thoughts like these ever pop into best things for mental health mind, remember: Conditions like these are fairly common, and luckily, it’s easy to treat many of them. Below are a handful of illustrative statistics regarding mental health in America:1 in 5: This is the number of Americans who experience a mental health problem each year.9.8 million: This is the number of American adults who have a serious mental health disorder. This translates to roughly one in 25 adults.6.9%: This is the number of adults with major depression in the U.S.18.1%: This is the number of adults with anxiety disorders in the U.S.No. 1: Across the world, depression is the leading cause of disability.2 to 1: Women are twice as likely to experience major depression as men.The following are results from the annual Stress in America survey conducted by the APA:74%: The number of adults who said they had a physical or emotional symptom due to stress in the previous month.91%: The number of Gen Zers (ages 15 to 21) who said they had a physical or emotional symptom due to stress in the previous month.1 in 5: The number of adults who don’t feel as though they do enough to manage their stress.64%: The number of adults who feel stressed by work.63%: The number of adults who feel stress because of health concerns.64%: The number of adults who feel stress due to money.48%: The number of adults who feel stress due to the state of the economy.9 Ways to Improve best things for mental health Mental HealthEven if best things for mental health don’t have a diagnosed condition like anxiety or depression, it’s vital to prioritize best things for mental health emotional well-being. There might be important things best things for mental health let fall by the wayside, and getting back on track can mean the difference between just getting by and thriving.Below, best things for mental health find detailed information on nine ways best things for mental health can improve best things for mental health mental health.1. Maintain healthy, thriving relationships.Loneliness is an epidemic in the U.S. right now. More people than ever are feeling isolated and, in turn, anxious and depressed. Loneliness can have a staggering impact on one’s mental and emotional health, as well as one’s physical health—one study discovered that loneliness had the same impact on one’s life span as obesity and smoking. Loneliness, the study found, shortened a person’s life by 15 years.One of the best ways to protect best things for mental health mental health is by prioritizing best things for mental health relationships. Having strong interpersonal connections benefits us in countless ways: It helps us feel like we’re part of a community, gives our life meaning, makes us feel accepted and reinforces that we have people we can rely on during times of adversity.It’s important to remember that asking family members or friends for help if best things for mental health struggling isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather strength. There should be no shame or embarrassment in asking for help. After all, being open and honest with best things for mental health loved ones can help best things for mental health begin the process of healing.2. Exercise.The impact of exercise on one’s mental health cannot be emphasized enough. Whether best things for mental health struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or any other condition, exercise should play an important role in best things for mental health life. Exercise can improve best things for mental health sleep, make best things for mental health feel more relaxed and increase best things for mental health body’s production of endorphins (often referred to as the feel-good hormones), which can improve best things for mental health mood.There are countless ways best things for mental health can reap the benefits of exercise. best things for mental health don’t have to do high-intensity interval training or intense spinning to reap the benefits of exercise. In fact, just 30 minutes of walking each day can improve best things for mental health mood and reduce stress, according to the NIMH. On top of that, just five minutes—the length of one song—of aerobic exercise, or cardio, can lower anxiety, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA).For healthy adults, the recommended amount of exercise is 150 minutes per week of moderate activity (such as biking or walking) and 75 minutes per week of more vigorous exercise, like running, according to the HHS.3. Challenge best things for mental health self.One of the worst things best things for mental health can do in life is grow stagnant and complacent. If best things for mental health stick with the status quo, best things for mental health won’t get to enjoy one of the best things in life, which is the wonderful feeling best things for mental health get from setting and achieving goals.Even if best things for mental health think best things for mental health at a good place in life and most of best things for mental health goals have been achieved, there are always areas for growth. The importance of having goals to work toward shouldn’t be overlooked. After all, having purpose in one’s life is a crucial element of our overall happiness and life satisfaction.Take a look at best things for mental health life and find an area for growth. Perhaps best things for mental health want to get in better physical shape, save more money for retirement, publish a book, travel to 10 countries, have children or learn a new skill. Whatever best things for mental health identify as best things for mental health goal, write it down. Then, take a look at SUCCESS contributor Margie Warrell’s five-step guide for setting and achieving goals.4. Practice gratitude.If best things for mental health ever felt overly anxious, stressed or depressed, best things for mental health likely familiar with the onslaught of never-ending negative thoughts. One great way to combat negative thinking is by practicing gratitude.There are countless ways to practice gratitude each day. One simple and effective way is by journaling each morning or evening. Spend 10 or 15 minutes journaling about the things best things for mental health thankful for, both small and large. Strive to list anywhere from three to 10 things. Explore the big-picture things best things for mental health grateful for, such as best things for mental health health or family, as well as small, daily things best things for mental health thankful for, like the nice weather or a compliment best things for mental health co-worker gave best things for mental health about best things for mental health outfit.5. Check in with best things for mental health self.best things for mental health could be anxious, depressed or overly stressed and not even realize it. Try to be attuned to best things for mental health body and mind, and notice the symptoms that something might be awry. To check in on best things for mental health mental health, ask best things for mental health self the following questions:Am I still as interested in everything I used to be interested in?Do I feel more irritated, angry or on edge than normal?Am I drinking alcohol more than I used to?Has the quality or quantity of my sleep diminished?Has my appetite changed? What about my weight?Do I have less energy than I used to?Have my loved ones commented on any changes in my mood or behavior?6. Learn about mindfulness meditation.Perhaps best things for mental health read about the benefits of meditation, but best things for mental health either don’t have time to meditate or best things for mental health don’t think it’s right for best things for mental health. Enter mindfulness meditation.Mindfulness is a form of meditation that allows best things for mental health to focus on (and even control, in some instances) best things for mental health thoughts. It can be done anywhere, at any time. The goal of mindfulness meditation is to be more present instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.The benefits of mindfulness are far reaching: It can lower stress, improve best things for mental health relationships, enhance best things for mental health focus and memory, and help best things for mental health feel more at ease.But how exactly does it work? Mindfulness can be practiced through deep, focused breathing. It can also be accomplished by going for a solo walk in nature or by practicing yoga. One other way best things for mental health can practice mindfulness, according to SUCCESS contributor Travis Bradberry, is by repeatedly reciting a short and uplifting message about best things for mental health self. Think of something that works for best things for mental health (such as, “I am not my anxiety,” “I am strong,” or “I am fulfilled”) and repeat it to best things for mental health self.Aim to practice mindfulness meditation once (or twice!) each day for 20 minutes.7. Prioritize best things for mental health sleep.If best things for mental health busy with things like work or raising small children, best things for mental health might struggle to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. But doing so is imperative. After all, being sleep-deprived will only exacerbate emotional and psychological problems. In fact, one study found that people who reported having insomnia were four times as likely to develop depression within the next three years.Good quality sleep isn’t just about getting seven to nine hours of shuteye each night. It’s also about getting sleep that is restful and will ensure best things for mental health energized for the day ahead. If best things for mental health wake up 10 or 15 times each night, best things for mental health won’t feel like best things for mental health gotten enough sleep to prepare best things for mental health for the day ahead.If best things for mental health struggling to get restful sleep, try to incorporate practices into best things for mental health life that will help best things for mental health achieve better sleep, like meditation. Exercise every day, if possible, eat a well-balanced diet, and try to eliminate things like caffeine, alcohol and smoking, which can negatively impact sleep. Keep best things for mental health bedroom dark, cool and quiet, and refrain from doing anything other than sleeping in best things for mental health bedroom.8. Incorporate self-care into best things for mental health life.Self-care is different for each and every person, but it’s a simple concept: It’s important to take time to care for best things for mental health physical, emotional and mental health in order to live a fulfilling life. Self-care can include things on this list (such as getting restful sleep, meditating and exercising), as well as other things that make best things for mental health feel good about best things for mental health self.Examples of self-care include: eating healthy, traveling somewhere new, trying new things, relaxing at the beach, spending time with a friend, or splurging on a massage or other luxury. The type of self-care doesn’t matter as much as the effect: It should make best things for mental health feel like best things for mental health taking care of best things for mental health self in a way that combats anxiety, depression and stress.Carve 20 minutes into best things for mental health day to focus on self-care. Make a healthy smoothie before work, go for a long walk at lunch or spend time laughing with best things for mental health significant other before bed.9. Don’t be afraid to seek help.If there’s one thing today’s teenagers and best things for mental health adults have taught us, it’s the importance of seeking professional care when necessary. Gen Z is the most likely of all generations to seek mental health treatment. They understand that there should be no shame or embarrassment in doing so.In years past, there was a stigma attached to seeing a therapist or psychiatrist. But today, that stigma has been removed, as more people than ever are seeking treatment for their mental health disorders, especially with the rise of online, remote therapy.If best things for mental health feel like best things for mental health struggling with best things for mental health mental health, don’t be afraid to seek out professional help. Click here to find a therapist near best things for mental health or ask best things for mental health primary care physician for a referral.Benefits of Good Mental HealthJust as physical fitness helps our bodies to stay strong, mental fitness helps us to achieve and sustain a state of good mental health. When we are mentally healthy, we enjoy our life and environment, and the people in it. We can be creative, learn, try new things, and take risks. We are better able to cope with difficult times in our personal and professional lives. We feel the sadness and anger that can come with the death of a loved one, a job loss or relationship problems and other difficult events, but in time, we are able to get on with and enjoy our lives once again.Nurturing our mental health can also help us combat or prevent the mental health problems that are sometimes associated with a chronic physical illness. In some cases, it can prevent the onset or relapse of a physical or mental illness. Managing stress well, for instance, can have a positive impact on heart disease.Chances are, best things for mental health are already taking steps to sustain best things for mental health mental health, as well as best things for mental health physical health – best things for mental health just might not realize it.Three important ways to improve best things for mental health mental fitness are to get physical, eat right, and take control of stress.Get PhysicalWe’ve known for a long time about the benefits of exercise as a proactive way to enhance our physical condition and combat disease; now, exercise is recognized as an essential element in building and maintaining mental fitness.So, if best things for mental health already do exercise of some kind, give best things for mental health self two pats on the back – best things for mental health improving best things for mental health physical and mental fitness.Exercise has many psychological benefits. For example:Physical activity is increasingly becoming part of the prescription for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Exercise alone is not a cure, but it does have a positive impact.Research has found that regular physical activity appears as effective as psychotherapy for treating mild to moderate depression. Therapists also report that patients who exercise regularly simply feel better and are less likely to overeat or abuse alcohol and drugs.Exercise can reduce anxiety. Many studies have come to this conclusion. People who exercise report feeling less stressed or nervous. Even five minutes of aerobic exercise (exercise which requires oxygen, such as a step class, swimming, walking) can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.Physical exercise helps to counteract the withdrawal, inactivity and feelings of hopelessness that characterize depression. Studies show that both aerobic and anaerobic exercise (exercise which does not require oxygen, such as weightlifting) have anti-depressive effects.Moods such as tension, fatigue, anger and vigor are all positively affected by exercise.Exercising can improve the way best things for mental health perceive best things for mental health physical condition, athletic abilities and body image. Enhanced self-esteem is another benefit.Last, but not least, exercise brings best things for mental health into contact with other people in a non-clinical, positive environment. For the length of best things for mental health walk or workout or aqua-fit class, best things for mental health engage with people who share best things for mental health interest in that activity.Feel the RushWe may not realize what caused it, but most of us have felt it. Whether we’re engaged in a leisurely swim or an adrenaline-charged rock climb, there is that moment when suddenly pain or discomfort drops away and we are filled with a sense of euphoria.We have endorphins to thank for these moments of bliss. Endorphins are chemicals produced in the brain, which bind to neuro-receptors to give relief from pain.Discovered in 1975, the role of endorphins is still being studied. They are believed to: relieve pain; enhance the immune system; reduce stress; and delay the aging process. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, sending these depression-fighting, contentment-building chemicals throughout the body. No wonder we feel good after a workout or brisk walk!Endorphin release varies from person to person; some people will feel an endorphin rush, or second wind, after jogging for 10 minutes. Others will jog for half an hour before their second wind kicks in.best things for mental health don’t have to exercise vigorously to stimulate endorphin release: meditation, acupuncture, massage therapy, even eating spicy food or breathing deeply – these all cause best things for mental health body to produce endorphins naturally.So enjoy some moderate exercise and feel the endorphin rush!Eat RightHere’s some food for thought – Making the right nutritional choices can affect more than the fit of our clothes; it can have an impact on our mental health.A new study by the UK’s Mental Health Foundation suggests that poor diet has played a role in the significant increase in mental health problems over the past 50 years.The trend away from eating less fresh produce and consuming more saturated fats and sugars, including substances like pesticides, additives and trans-fats, can prevent the brain from functioning properly, says the Feeding Minds study. It makes a persuasive link between changing food fads and increases in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia.The message is not a new one, but it is perhaps the most forceful argument yet for paying more attention to the nutrition-mental health connection. What we put on our plates becomes the raw material for our brains to manufacture hormones and neurotransmitters – chemical substances that control our sleep, mood and behaviour. If we shortchange the brain, we also shortchange our intellectual and emotional potential.Our diet also supplies the vitamins which our bodies cannot create, and which we need to help speed up the chemical processes that we need for survival and brain function. Vitamin deficiencies sometimes manifest themselves as depression and can cause mood swings, anxiety and agitation, as well as a host of physical problems.Mental health professionals point out that good eating habits are vital for people wanting to optimize the effectiveness of and cope with possible side effects of medications used to treat mental illnesses.Clearly, selecting which foods to eat has consequences beyond immediate taste bud satisfaction. To optimize our brain function, we need to eat a balanced diet of:Fresh fruits and vegetablesFoods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, seeds and eggsProteinWhole grainsTake Control of StressStress is a fact of life. No matter how much we might long for a stress-free existence, the fact is, stress is actually necessary. It’s how we respond to stress that can negatively affect our lives.Stress is defined as any change that we have to adapt to. This includes difficult life events (bereavement, illness) and positive ones. Getting a new job or going on vacation are certainly perceived to be happy occurrences, but they, too, are changes, also known as stress, that require some adaptation.Learning to effectively cope with stress can ease our bodies and our minds. Meditation and other relaxation methods, exercise, visualization are all helpful techniques for reducing the negative impact of stress.Stress can be beneficial – in moderation. That’s because short episodes of stress trigger chemicals that improve memory, increase energy levels and enhance alertness and productivity. But chronic stress has debilitating effects on our overall health. Physically, it can contribute to migraines, ulcers, muscle tension and fatigue. Canadian researchers found that chronic stress more than doubled the risk of heart attacks.Persistent stress also affects us emotionally and intellectually, and can cause:Decreased concentration and memoryConfusionLoss of sense of humourAnxietyAngerIrritabilityFearThe link between stress and mental illness has yet to be fully understood, but it is known that stress can negatively affect an episode of mental illness.Managing StressFirst, it’s important to recognize the source(s) of best things for mental health stress. Events such as the death of a loved one, starting a new job or moving house are certainly stressful.However, much of our stress comes from within us. How we interpret things – a conversation, a performance review, even a look – determines whether something becomes a stressor. Negative self-talk, where we focus on self-criticism and pessimistic over-analysis, can turn an innocent remark into a major source of stress.Understanding where best things for mental health stress originates can help best things for mental health decide on a course of action. External stressors, like bereavement or career changes, can be managed over time and with the support of family and friends. Internal stressors, caused by our own negative interpretation, require changes in attitude and behaviour.The goal of managing stress is to cue the “relaxation response”. This is the physiological and psychological calming process our body goes through when we perceive that the danger, or stressful event, has passed.Here are some tips for triggering the relaxation response:Learn relaxation techniques – Practicing meditation or breathing awareness every day can relieve chronic stress and realign best things for mental health outlook in a more positive way. Good breathing habits alone can improve both best things for mental health psychological and physical well-being.Set realistic goals – Learning to say no is essential for some people. Assess best things for mental health schedule and identify tasks or activities that best things for mental health can or should let go. Don’t automatically volunteer to do something until best things for mental health considered whether it is feasible and healthy for best things for mental health to do so.Exercise – best things for mental health don’t have to train for a marathon, but regular, moderate exercise helps ease tension, improves sleep and self-esteem. Making exercise a habit is key.Enjoy best things for mental health self – Taking the time for a favourite hobby is a great way of connecting with and nurturing best things for mental health creative self.Visualization – Athletes achieve results by picturing themselves crossing the finish line first. Use the same technique to practice “seeing” best things for mental health self succeed in whatever situation is uppermost in best things for mental health mind.Maintain a healthy lifestyle – A good diet is often the first thing to go when we’re feeling stressed. Making a meal instead of buying one ready-made may seem like a challenge, but it will be probably cheaper and certainly better for best things for mental health and the simple action of doing something good for best things for mental health self can soothe stressful feelings.Talk about it – Sharing best things for mental health troubles with a friend may help best things for mental health to put things in perspective and to feel that best things for mental health not alone. best things for mental health may also learn some other ways to manage stress effectively50 REALISTIC WAYS TO IMPROVE best things for mental health MENTAL HEALTHNurture best things for mental health relationships1. Value and cultivate the relationships in which best things for mental health can be both imperfect and loved.2. Stay connected. It takes effort to connect with people amidst a busy life, but taking the time to visit, have people over or send a thoughtful text is beneficial in the long run.3. Take a risk with someone best things for mental health trust and share about best things for mental health struggles. Be vulnerable and ask them to just listen and understand.4. Remember that no human interactions are perfect. It is a process of "Tear and Repair" to preserve best things for mental health relationships.5. Share something beautiful, especially if it doesn't cost anything, with someone else.6. Calming best things for mental health self down takes a lot of energy. Calming best things for mental health self down with the help of someone best things for mental health trust takes a lot less energy. We exist in relation to other people. Without talking about relationships, we miss one wall that's holding the roof up. If best things for mental health want to be mentally healthy, best things for mental health should have some good friends.7. Have realistic expectations about best things for mental health romantic relationships, friendships, family connections, etc. and establish clear personal boundaries regarding what is reasonable.8. Take time for best things for mental health self as individuals and as a couple. Plan date nights, take a yoga class once a week, go for a walk, etc. Make time for the activities best things for mental health enjoy and for activities that help best things for mental health feel closer to best things for mental health partner or spouse.9. If best things for mental health relationships are experiencing some road bumps, consider seeking couples therapy. Therapy can help couples strengthen their relationships, but success depends on when they come in.Practice mindfulness10. Be curious about best things for mental health emotions, especially the hard ones such as fear, anger, shame and sadness. Ask them questions and be patient with trying to understand and learn from them.11. Accept what best things for mental health feel as a feeling, not a fact. Step back and notice it, accept it, breathe, watch it move through best things for mental health. Feelings are information. best things for mental health have to gather quite a bit to get a useful picture.12. Set the intention to pay attention. Studies show that for most of us, our minds are wandering more than half of the time and that we're unhappy while it is doing so. best things for mental health can do this either from a top-down approach (by giving best things for mental health self gentle reminders to pay attention) or bottom-up (by tuning in with best things for mental health senses to what it feels like in the present moment).13. Take several breaths in which the exhalations are twice as long as the inhalations. In doing so, best things for mental health activating the calming, centering parasympathetic nervous system and telling the fight-or-flight-prone sympathetic nervous system that it doesn't need to work so hard.14. Cultivate a "resourcing" practice by thinking of the things in best things for mental health life that support best things for mental health and make best things for mental health feel cared for. Examples could include nature, a pet, an engaging hobby or music. Call these things to mind to serve as a resource during times of challenge.15. If best things for mental health find best things for mental health self having a positive experience, stay with it. Really savor that experience and take it in. Since "neurons that fire together, wire together," best things for mental health are using best things for mental health own attention to integrate these new feeling states into best things for mental health body-mind.16. Breathe. It's so simple, it's an automatic function, and yet sometimes when we're overwhelmed, we forget just how in control we are. Breathing deeply and slowly for a few minutes throughout the day can make a world of difference, and best things for mental health can do so at any time/place.17. If best things for mental health overwhelmed/anxious with everything best things for mental health need to do or emotions best things for mental health having, write them down. Jotting down best things for mental health feelings, thoughts and even tasks left undone can help best things for mental health harness some control and feel more grounded.18. Take a break. Having a rough morning? Take a minute to do something else, like watching a funny best things for mental health Tube video. When we rush ourselves into productivity mode, we can end up feeling like we aren't doing enough and then we become overwhelmed. Taking breaks throughout the day or during large tasks can help best things for mental health remain focused and not forcing best things for mental health brain to work at full speed for the entire task/day.19. If best things for mental health attach something like a mindfulness exercise to a habit best things for mental health already have — like brushing best things for mental health teeth — it can be easier to build the new habit.Remember that self-care is important20. Make time for exercise, try to have physical movement every day.21. Play, do things that best things for mental health enjoy to entertain best things for mental health self. After a long week, best things for mental health deserve to destress.22. Get enough sleep — seven to nine hours is recommended for best things for mental health adults and adults.23. Eat healthy. best things for mental health are what best things for mental health eat!24. It's great that best things for mental health put best things for mental health kids or other beloved friends and family members first, but it shouldn't be at the expense of best things for mental health own emotional well-being. Find ways to take good care of best things for mental health self or "secure best things for mental health mask first" before best things for mental health do that for others.Pay attention to how best things for mental health communicate with others25. Find healthy ways to assert best things for mental health self. Not speaking up in productive ways can lead to bottled up emotions that will fester and leak out later on.26. Expressing best things for mental health appreciation of others will make best things for mental health happier and healthier and help best things for mental health build stronger relationships. Say thank best things for mental health and take actions to show best things for mental health gratitude to the people best things for mental health love.27. Use best things for mental health phone settings to limit best things for mental health time on social media.Shift best things for mental health mindset to positive thinking28. Remember that best things for mental health are a human BEING, not a human DOING.29. Check our thoughts — we often get caught up in negative thinking without realizing it. Take the time to doubt best things for mental health fears and question them as they arise – if best things for mental health made a mistake at work, does this actually mean best things for mental health are not smart, or do best things for mental health just feel a little out of control right now? Seek evidence for times where best things for mental health proven best things for mental health fear is wrong and hold those examples close to best things for mental health.30. Appreciate the bigger picture. When best things for mental health are able to feel gratitude or awe about best things for mental health life, best things for mental health can better withstand any difficulties best things for mental health might face. Examples might be, what a beautiful sunset, what a tasty clementine, I love being a therapist, etc.31. Remember that behavior has meaning. Ask best things for mental health self, "What was my child or partner feeling inside when they did that?" to understand where they're coming from.32. Find something to laugh or smile about every day. Practice positivity.33. Don't believe everything best things for mental health think.34. Practice gratitude — when there are dirty dishes, be grateful for food; dirty laundry, be grateful for clothes; toys on the floor, be grateful for best things for mental health children; clothes on the floor, be grateful for best things for mental health partner…35. Keep a daily list of things best things for mental health are proud of best things for mental health self for. It is far too easy to forget the moments throughout our week where we felt proud of ourselves — even for things like being on time or putting effort into having a nice lunch for the next day. Give best things for mental health self credit, write it all down, and look back on it later when best things for mental health feel like things have become more difficult. We are far more capable than we ever give ourselves credit for.36. Before doing any self-help thing, no matter what, if best things for mental health can ask best things for mental health self, "What do I know about myself, my strengths and my weaknesses, that will help me formulate a plan that works for me?" best things for mental health can save best things for mental health self some enormous headache, because there is plenty of advice that only applies in certain conditions.37. If best things for mental health catch best things for mental health self ruminating on embarrassing experiences in the past, understand that it's a normal part of being human beings. Realize that best things for mental health mind is signifying to best things for mental health that best things for mental health should make a change and actually take action to adjust best things for mental health behavior. Doing this will go a long way to stopping the rumination.38. Try to adopt and maintain a growth mindset. It's important to note the opportunities and accompanying challenges to grow, evolve and make healthy changes within ourselves and in relationship with others. This growth process occurs throughout our entire lives, from age 1 to 101.39. Learn to strengthen and flex best things for mental health "flexibility" muscle. Life and the inevitable myriad of circumstances we must face require us to adapt and change each and every year we're alive.Overcome perfectionism40. Paralyzed by what best things for mental health have to accomplish? Break down big goals into smaller, manageable pieces that best things for mental health can execute one step at a time. Celebrate best things for mental health achievement of each step.41. Plagued by the critical voices in best things for mental health head? Counteract these messages by starting a positivity journal. Write five positive things about best things for mental healthself every day.42. Feeling overwhelmed? Practice mindful breathing for three minutes. Focus best things for mental health attention on breathing from best things for mental health belly instead of best things for mental health chest. Pay attention to the sounds and sensations of each breath over three minutes.43. Fed up with perfectionistic self-standards? Experiment with best things for mental health definition of success to help best things for mental health learn that best things for mental health survive a less than perfect life.44. Need encouragement? Create a positive mantra to repeat to best things for mental health self during times best things for mental health experience perfectionistic thoughts. For example, "I am enough. My best is enough. Fighting perfectionism is really hard."45. Contact a professional mental health provider who can help best things for mental health develop awareness and coping skills around their perfectionistic thoughts and behaviors.Become engaged and self-aware46. Always engage in learning, whether it be professional-related or for fun (a hobby). Engaging best things for mental health mind in new ways helps distract best things for mental health from the daily noise in best things for mental health head, help best things for mental health find new ways to build confidence and feel mastery.47. Find best things for mental health way to be expressive and creative, whether it be in the garden, writing, making something, cooking, drawing, dancing, etc.48. Focus on kindness — best things for mental health oxytocin, the hormone of connectedness, rises, best things for mental health heart rate slows and best things for mental health feel more benevolent, which makes best things for mental health healthier and happier.49. best things for mental health system should help best things for mental health feel in control without overwhelming best things for mental health. If best things for mental health are forgetful, a lot of reminders might help, but if best things for mental health anxious, so many reminders could make it worse.50. Educate best things for mental health self on common signs of mental health issues so best things for mental health can recognize them in best things for mental health self and others as they emerge.9 Practices To Help Maintain Mental Health During The Coronavirus LockdownAs many of us are being told to hunker down in our apartments and houses, and limit trips outside and social contact, things are feeling pretty “real” at this point. Aside from the general worry people may have about their physical health as they digest the news from around the world and here at home, there’s the larger toll this is taking on our collective mental health. Lots of organizations have put forth guidelines to help combat the stress of the coronavirus pandemic, and with good reason: One of the main weapons we have to fight the virus is social distancing—a deeply unnatural practice for humans, but an essential one.Here are some of the mental health practices to make sure to keep doing—or begin doing, for some of us—during the lockdown period.Have a routine (as much as best things for mental health can)We know how important routine is, especially for kids, under normal conditions. And when schools are closed and many people are working from home or told to stay at home, it might feel like all bets are off. But it’s actually much better for everyone’s mental health to try to keep a routine going, as much as possible.PROMOTEDGoogle Cloud BRANDVOICE | Paid ProgramTop 3 Predictions For The Security Industry In 2021Wind River BRANDVOICE | Paid ProgramWorld Of Intelligent SystemsCivic Nation BRANDVOICE | Paid ProgramEvery Child Deserves To Be Seen, Safe, And Successful“Studies in resiliency during traumatic events encourage keeping a routine to best things for mental health day,” says Deborah Serani, PsyD, professor of psychology at Adelphi University and author of "Sometimes When I'm Sad.” “This means eating meals at regular times, sleeping, waking and exercising at set times, and maintaining social (socially distant) contact. Unstructured time can create boredom, spikes in anxiety or depression, which can lead to unhealthy patterns of coping.”Another reason is that keeping a routine reduces “decision fatigue,” the overwhelm and exhaustion that can come from too many options. So in the morning, rather than wondering whether to start work or help the kids with their online learning, it’s better to know what best things for mental health going to do—make a schedule that everyone can get on board with, and try to stick with it (as much as is possible—don’t beat best things for mental healthself up if it doesn’t always work, and it’s sure not to work some days). This will free up some mental bandwidth during this time of uncertainty, which is already straining everyone’s cognitive capacities.MORE FOR best things for mental healthHalf Of Patients With Severe Covid-19 Have Lasting Heart Damage, Study FindsBillionaire Clover Health CEO Vivek Garipalli’s Expletive-Ridden TiradeCovid-19 Vaccines And Autoimmune DiseaseStart an at-home exercise routineWorking out at home in these times is obviously a good way to stay healthy and kill indoor time. There are lots of options, from the 21st century ones (Peloton and MIRROR) to the old-fashioned ones (workout videos and the dusty hand weights in best things for mental health closet). Many online workout sources are offering free access or longer free trial periods during this time, which might be worth looking into. But again, anything that gets best things for mental health heart pumping or builds muscle is excellent for both physical and mental health.Get outside—in nature—if best things for mental health canThis is much easier in the country or suburbs, but if best things for mental health in the city and it’s feasible, shimmy past best things for mental health building neighbors and go for a walk in the park. Remember to stay six feet away from other people—as city dwellers know, this can take some maneuvering, but it’s possible.And there are some very good reasons to do so. Lots of recent research finds that spending time in nature is a boon to both mental and physical health. For instance, multiple studies have found that time in green and blue space is associated with reduced anxiety and depression, and the connection may well be a causal one.On the physical side, an interesting meta-analysis in the journal Environmental Research a couple of years ago found that people who spent more time “forest bathing,” also known as shinrin yoku, had significantly reduced risk for chronic health issues, including reduced risk of coronary heart disease, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol, lower heart rate, and reduced all-cause mortality and death from heart disease.But what’s fascinating is that it doesn’t seem to have to do with just the extra activity, the sunshine, or the air quality (though these certainly play a role). Forest bathing may actually help the immune system: One mechanism is thought to be through the chemicals that trees release, phytoncides—some studies have found that people who spent more time in nature had greater activity of immune cells known as natural killer cells.So get out to the park and breathe in some phytoncides (making sure to practice good social distancing, of course)—it will be a very good habit for body and mind.Declutter best things for mental health homeWorking on best things for mental health home if best things for mental health have time can be a good way to feel productive and in control (see caveat down below though). “Take the opportunity of the extra time by decluttering, cleaning or organizing best things for mental health home,” says Serani, referencing the book Trauma-Informed Care. “Studies say the predictability of cleaning not only offers a sense of control in the face of uncertainty, but also offers best things for mental health mind body and soul a respite from traumatic stress.”The caveat is that best things for mental health don’t want to become obsessive about cleaning, since there’s only so much best things for mental health can do. But using the extra time, if best things for mental health have it, to reorganize and toss or donate items best things for mental health no longer use is a very good idea.Meditate, or just breatheMeditation has lots of research behind it, as most people by now know—it’s been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and even increase the volume of certain areas of the brain. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), developed by Jon Kabat-Zinnat UMass, has been shown, through numerous studies, to be effective—and while it generally involves an eight-week course, a number of organizations offer this online.But if meditation isn’t for best things for mental health, just breathing slowly might be. Controlled breathing has been used for millennia to calm the mind—and a study a few years ago showed the mechanism that might explain it. The researchers found that a tiny subset of neurons in the area of the brain known to control various types of breathing also seemed to house a group of neurons that controlled the animals’ level of arousal. Knocking this area out made mice uncharacteristically calm—and the team believe that slow breathing might also tap into this area of the brain and have the same effect.The researchers also point out that slow breathing is used “clinically to suppress excessive arousal and stress such as certain types of panic attacks,” which is nothing to sneeze at. So trying some controlled breath work (there are good resources for this online) may be an especially healthy idea these days.Woman breathing fresh air outdoors in summerbest things for mental health woman enjoying yoga, relaxing, feeling alive, breathing fresh air, calm and dreaming with ... [+] GETTYMaintain community and social connectionAs mentioned, we’re fundamentally social creatures, and during crises it’s natural to want to gather. Social connectivity is the perhaps the greatest determinant of wellbeing there is, as this landmark 80-year-long study from Harvard reported, and one of our most basic psychological needs. Unfortunately, it’s the opposite of what we can do right now, so we have to be creative, to maintain both psychological closeness and a sense of community. Texting and social media are ok, but picking up the phone and talking or videoconferencing, or having a safe-distance conversation on the street, is probably much better.Be of service, from a distanceBeing of service is one of the best things we can do for society—and on a more selfish note, for ourselves. Studies have repeatedly found that serving others, even via small acts of kindness, has strong and immediate mental health benefits. And feeling a sense of purpose has also been shown to help people recover from negative events and build resilience. For people who are lucky enough to be healthy right now and not caring for a loved one who’s sick, finding ways to help others in this kind of crisis is probably very good for best things for mental health own well-being.Here’s a breakdown from the Times on organizations that are helping those affected by coronavirus on a larger scale. And on a more local note, organizing efforts to help neighbors in need of food or supplies, buying gift certificates to local business, ordering takeout from neighborhood restaurants, and helping fundraise locally can help the financial fallout that’s happening all over the country. (More ideas are here.)Practice gratitudeThis is not the easiest thing to do in these times, particularly if best things for mental health felt the more brutal effects of the pandemic, like job or business loss, or illness. But practicing gratitude for the things we do have has been shown again and again to be hugely beneficial to mental health. For instance, in one of the first key studies on the subject, the researchers found that writing down five things one was grateful just once a week was significantly linked to increased well-being. Other studies since have borne this out; and of course gratitude is a central tenet of most religions and philosophies around the world.So even though it might be a challenge right now, write down some of the things best things for mental health grateful for; or if best things for mental health have little kids and it’s easier, try talking about and listing aloud things that make best things for mental health happy and that best things for mental health thankful for.Conclusion:The might be the most important thing to keep in mind—don’t beat best things for mental health self up when things are not going perfectly in best things for mental health household. On top of everything else, being upset with best things for mental health self is totally counterproductive. If the kids watch too much Netflix or play too many hours of video games, it’s not the end of the world. Things are going to be hairy for a while, and if best things for mental health can’t stick to best things for mental health schedule or can’t fit in best things for mental health at-home workout every day, it’s really not such a big deal in the long run. It’s much more valuable to everyone to cut best things for mental health self some slack, use the time to reflect on the important things, and try to keep a sense of “we’re all in this together” at the forefront.

The answers so far swing from cultural chauvinism over naked ignorance to pure fantasy and back, with the only exception of Ilya Shtyb, who at least points us in the right direction by quoting knowledge that was still available and printable at the end of the 19th century. Since then, true erudition has been replaced by blindly repeating the mantras of cultural, theological and scientific dogmas which have become so ingrained, that their irrationality has completely vanished from sight.One of these ingrained dogmas most of you are probably not even aware of is Charles Lyell’s “Uniformitarianism” which is still the foundational framework of “modern geology”. It states that“…..the same natural laws and processes that operate in our present-day scientific observations have always operated in the universe in the past and apply everywhere in the universe.”Any rational mind will immediately recognize this as complete nonsense, because there is no rationale to assume that there was never a catastrophe of serious magnitude - yet “Catastrophism” has been ridiculed and banned from the halls of geological “science”. As a result, Lyell finds himself in the awkward position of having to offer the following “explanation” for the findings of Hippopotami bones in caves of England:“(geologists) ...... may freely speculate on the time when herds of hippopotami issued from North African rivers, such as the Nile, and swam northward in summer along the coasts of the Mediterranean, or even occasionally visited islands near the shore. Here and there they may have landed to graze or browse, tarrying awhile, and afterwards continuing their course northward. Others may have swum in a few summer days from rivers in the south of Spain or France to the Somme, Thames, or Severn, making timely retreat to the south before the snow and ice set in.”This is obviously a hilariously harebrained scheme and I bring it up only in order to give you a taste of how silly it is to think that an alphabet is a random collection of meaningless graphic scribbles, plus how racist it is to maintain that the slavic people are incapable of cultural achievements of their own. In this vein, their alphabet must of course be a second hand adaptation of the Greek, their grand cities - like St Petersburg and Odessa for instance - must of course have been built by “European” architects and so on …. all of which is of course as silly as the Hippopotami story. Anyone who has ever visited St Petersburg can feel that in his guts - although maybe not allowing it to take shape in thoughts.Like Hippopotami swimming from the Nile to England, we are supposed to swallow the idea that these columns have been somehow “made” by illiterate peasants Peter had dragged by their hair from the boondocks - under the supervision of “European Architects” …..Same with the Alphabet. It is utterly irrational to believe that the foundation of literacy would be in itself illiterate, i.e. bare of meaning. The modern Cyrillic alphabet is only a slight variation - mostly a cutting down form 49 to 33 - of the ancient slavic alphabet, which in its magnificence of thought is equivalent to the magnificence of these columns. It is way older than anything we call classical, and all European alphabets are more or less corrupted and amputated descendants, certainly brain amputated descendants. This fact seems to have been “common knowledge” as recently as the 1790ies: (quotes courtesy Ilya Shtyb, who offered them in his answer: from “A View of Nature”, Sir Richard Joseph Sullivan, 1794,)“An opinion has long prevailed among the learned of Europe, that arts and letters first took their rise in the northern parts of Asia, and that they were cultivated in those parts long before they were practiced in Phoenicia and Egypt.”“The Asiatics had arisen to the zenith of science, before the Greeks had learned their alphabet.”Now, that makes way more sense in the light of what we are about to see below.The ancient slavic alphabet is not a string of meaningless graphic symbols, but a grid of 7 x 7 = 49 fields, as a “periodic table of the elements of thought”, cast into letters, which themselves are derived from 140 older runic depictions of ideas, concepts.In this grid every row and every column has a philosophical “theme” which the letters sitting at the crossing of a row and a column reflect individually, and then the sequence of the letters read in one line depicts the ideal spiritual journey of an incarnated soul. This tablet has depth no Western Hegels and no Heideggers have ever fathomed.Letters here (and with them their concepts) often come in duplets or triplets, either as duality “Essence - Gestalt” or trinity “Essence - Process - Gestalt ”. For instance: the three first letters in the second row (which comes with the Heading “Life”) reflecting the old slavic triplet Jav-Nav-Prav.ZHIVOT - DZELO - ZEMLYA = life as process - essence of life (spirit) - the world (as result and gestalt) …….Here life is obviously not seen as a privilege of humans and animals, but all “Matter” which is but materialized “Spirit” forming the “Gestalt” of the universe.The central letter at the crossing of the diagonals - OUKH - is the most important letter with the most important message. It means the “call of the heart” , “the intense spiritual experience which cannot but transform into and express itself in action” reflecting the characteristic Asian concept of “Knowledge is Action” …. if you don't do, you don't know.Now, because this grid has such intricate meaning, whereas the Greek, Roman, Hebrew Coptic and Arabic have none, this is clearly the original. Look at row three for instance, which comes with the header “man(kind)”K (kako) - L (lyudiye) - M (miclite) - N (nash) - O (on) - P (pokoi) - R (retzi)practically unchanged through millennia and across cultures because of such central importance:K = volume (body), self similarity, identity …L = multitude of bodies = people, horizontal connection between individuals, good deeds …M = thought, the process of thinking, contemplation …N = ancestry, vertical connection between individuals…..O = incommensurability: nowhere - nothing - nobody, yet at the same time everywhere - everything - everybody…..P = serenity, restfulness, absence of trouble….R = speech, communication via language…..Be aware, that these are just hints of what these letters try to convey, there could be a philosophical - scientific treatise for every letter. Be also aware that these are not only symbols (philosophy) but also symptoms (physics), in fact the entirety of this is pure induction physics as it plays out every day within yourself as well as in your electrified home (unbeknownst to you of course, because we live in the most undereducated times of all times. N.Tesla: “The day science begins to study non-physical phenomena, it will make more progress in one century than in all the previous centuries of its existence.”)Or look at the first row, titled the “foundation”A (az) - B (bogi) - V (vedi) - G (glagoli) - D (dobro) - ε (est) - yE - (yesm)also practically unchanged through millennia and across cultures, because, well, because being the foundation:A = be aware of your manifest self…. as a unity or the congenial existence of incommensurable spirit (dielectricity, counterspace, energy) and body (magnetism, space….. yourself as a manifestation of the duality animus-anima)B = be aware of the the multitude of manifestations…… of physical “symptoms”, which later degenerated to the idea of “gods” …. in the words of William Blake who wrote his “Marriage of Heaven and Hell” also in the 1790ies and still understood the old slavic concept of Bogi: “Till a system was formed, which some took advantage of & enslav’d the vulgar by attempting to realize or abstract the mental deities from their objects: thus began Priesthood….”V = turn this awareness into knowledge (the Vedas = collection of knowledge)G = communicate this knowledge…… (from glagolit = to word, to utter)D = be sensitive and good deeds will follow….. ( dobro = good) pay attention to the fact that there is no catalogue listed of what is good and what not, but only the admonition to cultivate sensitivity within yourself and the good deeds will follow automatically, because only a spiritual klutz will do bad …..ε = be aware of your material existence….. ( est = the quintessential “I am”, and still the basic word in most languages for something to be “is”, “ist” “est” “εστι” )yE = be aware of what is common to all material existence…… be aware that everything that is manifest bares in itself the same “manifestedness” as you do…. a spirituality which later degenerated into simplistic “animismus”….….. this is the foundational row of awareness. (Osnova=foundation)From here let me take you on a short excursion into linguistics, because you probably found yourself asking the question: what’s the matter with [G] and [C]? why have they been exchanged?Well, they haven't: how do you pronounce “Cat”? like “sat”? no! with an unvoiced, aspirated g-sound [kat]. The Germans say Khor when they spell Chor, not Sor or Tsor….. so the [C] in ABC… is the old [G] from Glagoli ….. easy to understand when you look at the slavic g-letter: Г …. when you start writing this from the right downward hook upwards, you can’t but end up with a C-shape.Now, there is a language development called the Satem-Kentum split, classifying a language by how the word for “hundred” is pronounced: with an s-sound or a g-sound. The s-sounding languages sometimes slipped it forward from [S] to [tsch] like the Italian [Cento] and sometimes form [K] in Cymraeg “cant” - both pronounced “Kymraeg” and “kant” - back to [H] like English “Hundred” or German “Hundert”. Something similar happened between Ukrainian “Kviti” and the Russian “Zveti” (meaning “flowers”). The Greek Gamma (Γαμμα) is pronounced xhamma, so has already left the occlusive position of [G] and is on its way back to hamma….. similar in Ukrainian, where the old slavic [Г] has also slipped back to [xh], but a g-sound still exists, wherefore a diacritic version of [Г] had to be created [Ґ].Greek is interesting because it uses different old slavic letters in order to differentiate between upper and lower case or position (beginning-middle-end of the word) for instance:…..the slavic [ε] from (εst) is the lower case [e], whereas the slavic letter (yEsm) (palatalized E) for the upper case [E]…..….or it uses two different variations of the letter C(lova) = word (pronounced “Slova”) for their [S]: in the middle [σ] and the end [ς] of the word, plus an Etruscan [M] (= s-sound) turned on its side for the upper case [Σ]. The Etruscan m-sound and n-sound are represented in pretty much unchanged form from the ancient slavic runes and thus look different form modern [M] (see below).….for the lower case zeta [ζ] they use the old form of Zemlya. (see above, letter 10)….for the lower case [n] they use the old slavic letter Izhiza (letter48, see above) which was pronounced three ways: as an [i] a the beginning, as a [v] in the middle and as an [n] at the end of a word. Therefore we find today all three pronunciations in the same shape: our [v] the greek [ν] and the greek i-sound in [υ]…. the upper case [Ξ] reflects the Etruscan form of the ksi-sound (see below), whereas the lower case is a perfect mirrored image of the the old slavic [ksi] (letter 45 )…. the upper case [O] is the letter 19 [O] whereas the lower is letter 40 [ω]The Romans and Greek used what we call the upper case [T] for the t-sound, they didn’t use the “lower case” [t], which “is said” to be a later development in the Latin cursive script - which is of course not true, because the Coptic used it long before that to denote the syllable [ti] as opposed to the bare t-sound denoted as [T]. How dos that come about? because all these letters are adaptations from the old slavic runic system: imagine a lower case [t] “hanging” from the line as the runes did (see below), and the Devanagari still does today. Now you get the top line as preserved in the uppercase [T] plus the line crossing like in the lower case [t], ending up with a letter that looks like an upper and lower [t] combined.The Coptic uses the first one for denoting the T-sound [Tau] (3rd column, 4 down) and the other for denoting the syllable [ti] (last).They use other letters commonly used in slavic writing: the [khei] for instance is the letter 14 (kherv) in the old slavic with the meaning “Euphoria of connection with the divine” or take the letter for coptic h-sound [hori]: it is written like Ukrainian lower case [g] which is pronounced [h] as in Hrivna, the Ukrainian unit of money and seen in the symbol [₴]. (4th column, 5 down).The [shei] in Coptic is how the Cyrillic writes the last letter in borsht (4th column,2nd down), and the 6th letter [so] in Coptic is the way the old slavic was depicting the s-sound in slova (слова).The [m] (2nd column 4 down) is written like the slavic cursive [m], not like the greek and the roman….Plus, the Coptic for some letters retains the top line of the slavic runes, a very conservative trait, that you don't re-introduce accidentally, once it has been lost (as was the case with the greek): look at the first sign, the 3rd, the 6th, then4th column 4 down, the lower case khei still hanging from the line…..Letter 40, 41, 42 and 43 in the slavic 49 letter system are nasal sounds similar to the French and Sanskrit nasal sounds, and are associated with connection to the divine - which is the incommensurable, the energy resting in “counter space”.Now maybe you can appreciate the infantile level on which Wikipedia and the dogmatic “consensus” keeps you pinned all your life when they authoritatively state: “By at least the 8th century BCE the Greeks borrowed the Phoenician alphabet and adapted it to their own language, creating in the process the first "true" alphabet, in which vowels were accorded equal status with consonants.”If anything, this is even below the “swimming Hippopotami” level of nonsense. Extrapolate that kind of free wheeling, unrestrained making up of stories onto the entire field of his-story, and you get the picture.The old slavic alphabet presented above has its roots in the even older slavic “Karuna” system with 140 graphs, from which the Indian Devanagari was derived:here an example of old slavic runesand here the much later Devanagari, both “hanging from the line”, as opposed to our script “standing on the line”While we are at it, let’s not forget to mention the Etruscans and their writing, which out of pure cultural chauvinism of course has to be - and still is - kept shrouded in mystery, when there is no mystery at all: They are old slavic people with a writing that comes right out of the old Karuna system, a writing which they conveyed to the Romans.This alphabet was written right to left or sometimes “boustrophedon”, “like the ox plows”, back and forth, therefore the mirrored images….. and shows already the graphic transition from G to C , with the C-shape still representing a G-sound.When Sebastiano Ciampi, a theologian and scholar of antiquity was sent to Poland by the Vatican, he endeavored to learn and study the slavic languages. Like many other scholars of his time he was deeply puzzled by the “Etruscan Mystery”, but once he became acquainted with the slavic, all that befuddlement vanished: he could just read it straight up and down…. and wrote a book about it:Because you don't mess with the “European Dogmatic System”, this book almost cost him his life - spared only through help of high ranking friends in the most powerful institution of this system, the Vatican - and the book vanished in “deep storage”.( excursion into physics, where this is also common practice: Halton Arp, the acknowledged foremost expert in cosmic redshift similarly lost career and reputation after he found what the ESDS (European Scientific Dogmatic System) could and would not stomach: ejections from galaxies are massless - which means the universe is not a Newtonian one ruled by mass and gravity, but a Faradayan one, ruled by ether and light.)The old slavic thinking was pure ether philosophy, they understood and practiced the knowledge of the polarization of the ether, of space and incommensurable counter space, they knew about what we today in scientific lingo would call a “precessing toroidal - hypertrochoidal - Reciprocation”Here below is “ROD” - one of the central concepts, “deities” if you will, of the old slavic culture - which means “reciprocation”, “ancestry”, “coming from..”, “family”…… (the power and serenity of the “quintessential father” an unnamed artist was capable of conveying with brush on fresco in an old Ukrainian temple leaves all our Michelangelos in the shade)…….and what does he wear on his forehead?The symbol of “reciprocation”, of creation of “volume”, i.e.space, i.e. the universe, everything tangible (magnetism), “coming forth” from counter space, incommensurable, unlocalized, intangible energy (dielectricity)This “coming forth” here made visible with a ferrocell….. as well was the return i.e. “reciprocation” into counter space (center)This is no coincidence, Theeta [θ], the third last letter in the old alphabet - see above - is a representation of the dielectric inertial plane, the “coming forth of the tangible world” again made visible with a ferrocell, as it is “writing” the letter [θ] right before our very eyes:This “coming forth” is with mind boggling precision described in the semantics of this letter: for those reading Russian, here also in the original, because it is so to the point:“взаимодействие душевних и физических материальных структур в едином пространстве”It is the forthcoming of the material world from the incommensurable dielectric plane of energy , often called the “consciousness of the universe” or “soul = душа”, in everyday words, the “connection of man to nature” (слияние человеко с природой)……………………………………………………………….Whenever you come across the term “Reform”, be it language, or writing or - and especially - Calendar reform, you can bet your grandmother that it is not to the betterment, but the obfuscation, destruction and emptying of meaning, and thus the elimination of knowledge, the “erasing of awareness” which in turn results in a short life of “struggle and enslavement, deprived of happiness” - the (institutionalized) Christian idea of what life is all about.The (second to last) last letter in the slavic “matrix of a spiritual life” i.e. the alphabet, is [Izhiza] meaning “ultimate serenity, bliss, happiness, the driving energy of life”. that means, if you live a life in spirituality and happiness, you live a long life: Let’s see how that reflects in the Old Slavic Calendar:This Calendar was based on the numbers 9 and 16 : the year was divided in 9 months with alternating 40 and 41 days. Every 16 years was a “holy” year with only 41-day months. A week had 9 days which were spent as follows: 2 days work - 1 day rest and fast - 3 days work - 1 day rest and fast - one day work - 1 day “doing nothing” = literally ne-delya [неделя] which ironically in modern Russian is used as the word for week - instead of the “doing nothing” day of rest (Sunday). This day was the day for feasting and socializing.A day had 16 hours (our 90min) and a new day started when the old ended, and that was after a day’s work with supper (our 19:30). So, a day started with a meal, rest and sleep.And now to the relation of awareness and consciousness to time: we in our superficial life of hurry and struggle think a “second” is a pretty short amount of time: let’s hear what “aware” people are capable of fathoming: in these old days, and hour was divided into 144 “parts” (chasti=части), then every part had 1296 (36^2) subparts (dolya=доля), then every such subpart had 72 “moments” (mgnavenya=мгновения) and these again were made up of 760 “instants” (mig=миг). Every instant had 160 “mini moments” for lack of a better word (sig=сиг), and now take a deep breath, because every sig came with 14000 subdivisions called santig (сантиг)….. this gets you down to awareness of time intervals in femto-seconds, which is the time scale of molecular bond vibrations….. this kind of awareness lets you “observe” the vibrations of your own constituent parts …. does that give you a taste of the “asinine superficiality” on which we are kept grazing, toiling away our short lives?The old slavic word for “forehead”, i.e. “thinking” was“tschelo” (чело) and the word still used for century is vek (век). If you put them together, you get tschelovek (человек) and that is still the word for one human being - language “reform” only gets you so far in way of obfuscation….. so, that means that the word for one human being is equivalent to “100 years of thinking” and because “mature thinking” starts with forty, you end up in the 140ies for the life span of a human living in awareness. The word for the time span of 144 years is krug zhizni (круг жизни) and means “one circle of life”The time scale of the universe then builds on this life circle: 180 of such 144 year circles makes 25,920 years which is a cosmic cycle of celestial precession.This is obviously only a shortest possible introduction, just to give you an idea of the mental and spiritual capabilities of the old slavic - world spanning btw - civilization, it takes a life to penetrate to the full depth of it. Btw, 2012 was the beginning of a new era (which was all about the “Mayan” calendar, but which is actually this one below) It counts today as 7527 years after “the great peace” (Not the “creation of the world”)And here we are back to linguistics: The old slavic had 5 i-sounds, (and this thousands of of years before the Greek could even spell their own names, inventors of the vowels all right, Wiki) three for length (long-middle-short) and two for position (high=palatalized, and low, the specific slavic iy) They had three words MIR spelled with three different i-sounds (mиr - mir - mїr) as a typical triplet: peace (as essence) - world (as gestalt) - society (as process). the process has disappeared and peace and world have melted together in one word MIR: now, because the bible is way younger than all this, they got it wrong, it’s not the creation of the world, it is the establishment of the “great peace” the calendar is talking about. One of the oldest existing symbols is that of “George killing the dragon”, referring to that event, peace with the dragon, or after slaying the dragon)For these people “Peace” was not something hanging on a thin thread, it was the essence, which powers humanity and creates the world anew every day - we have eliminated peace and thus necessarily and unavoidably will destroy mankind and the world - if we don't reinstate it.Nature - spirit and the physical world - is one of conjugate polarity and we have chosen - or rather been forced to chose - to negate and eliminate from our awareness the most important part, from where all physical reality springs forth: incommensurable consciousness, the seat of ultimate rest (inertia) and source of all energy (yes, energy has a source, i.e. it is produced: “Nature has stored up in the universe infinite energy. The eternal recipient and transmitter of this infinite energy is the ether. The recognition of the existence of ether and of the functions it performs, is one of the most important results of scientific research…” (N.Tesla)Knowledge and Awareness is the only way to save ourselves and the world, and it is all in the alphabet you use on a daily basis without knowing anything about it…….