Mental Health Tips
How to Feel Better – Today!
If you find yourself feeling sad, angry, anxious a lot, you’re not alone. This simple self-help guide will teach you some core principles to feeling more grounded and at peace. With a healthy mind, there’s nothing you can’t do!
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” – Carl Rogers, psychologist.
Many folks who struggle with mental health issues often deal with crippling self-loathing. Before you can address any of the problems in your life, you first need to offer kindness to yourself. You didn’t choose to be in pain. It’s not your fault you’re having these feelings. Additionally, you can’t deny how you feel – you’re in pain. Once you accept that fact, you can start to apply the rest of these self-help tips.
Start at the very basics. Are you getting enough sleep? Do you drink water throughout the day? Are you spending most of your time sitting or lying down? It may sound simple, but committing to regular exercise like a brief walk can do wonders for your mental health. Make sure you’re getting enough water, sunshine, and movement. Try to eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, if you can. Then you’ll be off to a great start!
According to the US Surgeon General, loneliness is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. People who experience loneliness also have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. When you’re struggling, it can be tempting to isolate yourself from people, but try to connect with a friend at least once a week. Whether that’s going out for coffee, going for a walk, or talking on the phone, the important thing is that you spend time with someone who knows and accepts you.
If you’re struggling, even getting out of bed in the morning can be difficult. But if you can get yourself outside in the sunshine as early as possible, you’ll feel the benefits very quickly. Early morning sun exposure increases the body’s serotonin which helps you feel calmer, more focused, and in a better mood.
Alcohol and other drugs can provide some much-needed relief, but unfortunately, they don’t work for very long. If you find yourself needing more and more of a substance to cope with the pain you’re feeling, you can feel trapped and helpless. If you want to stop drinking or using a substance, you can learn more about our Substance Use Disorder program here.
Doing something meaningful can do wonders for your mental health. Studies show that volunteering reduces stress, lowers the risk of depression and anxiety, and even benefits you physically! If you’re able, try to find a group in your community doing work that you’re passionate about. Even if it’s just one night a month, you may be surprised how much better you feel after giving back.
Being present and in the moment is one of the best things we can do for our mental health. A wandering mind is an unhappy mind. The more you work on being in the present moment, the less we worry about the past, future, and other scenarios you play out in your head.
If you’ve ever felt calmer after taking a long, deep breath, then you know how much better it feels to be present rather than “in your head.” Meditation is one of the most popular ways to practice this.
If meditation isn’t for you, try just taking 3 deep breaths throughout the day. Return your attention to how your body feels. Try it out and see if you feel a little more at ease as the day goes on.
