Sophie Okolo, MPH

To get the most out of life, it’s vital to take good care of your health. For many, health is limited to only physical elements when various factors such as mental and emotional wellbeing are disregarded. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. So, what are some practical ways to protect your mental health? Here are a few suggestions.

Professional support

Sometimes, you may not feel so good due to negative emotions or toxic self-talk practices. In such times, your mental well-being may not be in a healthy state. In that case, it is important to seek help. You can receive help by sharing these struggles with a trusted loved one. Or, you can also seek the services of therapists from reputable health centers such as those from Sunshine Behavioral Health (https://www.sunshinebehavioralhealth.com/texas/fort-worth/). These professionals are skilled in identifying your triggers, helping you deal with them, offering solutions, and other ways to help you improve your mental health.

Find ways to unwind

Although it can be difficult to avoid stress, being stressed all the time has adverse effects on your mental health. Finding the time to relax is easier said than done. Besides finding time, you need to find an activity that would help you unwind- which can be a stressful task! To help you out, make a list of ways to constructively release stress. You can also engage in hobbies such as reading, listening to music, or watching movies. You can also schedule relaxing spa days or take a vacation!

Boost your confidence 

Confidence and mental health are inextricably linked. When we feel good about ourselves, our mental health improves. Conversely, when our mental health is suffering, our confidence plummets. So it’s important to find ways to boost your confidence when you’re feeling low. 

One way to do this is to focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Make a list of things you’re proud of, both big and small. Include things like “I got a promotion at work” or “I finished my first 5K race.” This will help you remember that you are capable and competent, even when you’re feeling down.
You can also set some goals for yourself. For example, if you want to lose weight, try eating a healthy diet, exercise, or go for bariatric help. Achieving small goals can help increase your confidence and show you that you can make positive changes in your life.

Connect more with others

Friends, family, and even pets can help put you in a good mood and help you prevent or fight off various mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It is important to form healthy connections and relationships. This consists of people who aim at loving, respecting, and encouraging you. People you are happy to be around and those who bring out the best in you.

Stay in touch 

Strong family ties and encouraging friends might help you cope with life’s challenges. Friends and family members can make you feel loved and included. They can give you different viewpoints on whatever is going on in your head. They can help you stay active and grounded while also supporting you in tackling practical challenges. Nothing beats meeting up with someone in person to catch up. This isn’t always possible, though. Rather, give them a call, write them a letter, or talk with them online. Keep channels of communication open. It’s great for your health!

Watch the alcohol

Alcohol is frequently consumed to alter one’s mood. Some people drink to cope with their fears of loneliness, but this is only a temporary solution. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms influence your brain and the rest of your body, making you feel worse as the buzz wears off. This leads to the consumption of more alcohol and increases the damages it causes to your body. Light drinking on occasion is, for the most part, absolutely safe and enjoyable. Keep your alcohol consumption under the suggested weekly limits.