Mental health is about more than being free of mental illness, it is also about having a positive sense of wellbeing. When you have a positive mental health you are more likely to enjoy life’s pleasures, believe in yourself and those around you and you are better able to cope with the everyday stresses of life.
Having a positive mental health means you can strive to reach your potential and follow your dreams and ambitions. It means being able to maintain supportive and loving relationships. It means having hope in your future and having the courage to move forward in the world.
What can you do to improve your mental health?
Take care of yourself:
Eat well. What you put into your body can have a huge effect on how you feel. The right foods and drinks will hydrate you, give you energy and increase concentration. Cut down on alcohol, as it is a depressant and will only make you feel worse.
Sleep well. Most people need at least 7 hours of quality sleep. Lack of sleep can affect your mood. If you are not getting enough sleep you need to look at ways to improve this.
Exercise. You can start off slowly walking, swimming, and dancing. Just 30 minutes of exercise a day can make a big difference to your wellbeing. Even better join a sports team for the added benefit of socialising while you exercise.
Timeout. It is important to give yourself time to unwind and relax. Do things that you enjoy. Allow yourself time to experience quiet and healing. Allow yourself time for fun.
Communication:
Chat with friends and family about issues that are worrying you;
Contact a helpline which offers non-judgemental support; such as Dignity 4 Patients
Stay in touch with friends. As much as possible, cultivate and maintain supportive relationships. It is easy and common to distance yourself from others when you are in a difficult place but isolation is not helpful. Make an effort to keep in contact with the people in your life it will be worth it.