Common Lifestyle Changes to Boost Mental Health
M
ore and more Americans are being treated for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions every year. This is partly due to the rise in population and partly due to an increasingly competitive workforce, as well as a variety of other factors. However, you can start to take control of your life and your mental health by making a few adjustments in your life.
Stress Management
Since a lot of mental health difficulties come from worry and stress, it’s helpful to take time to enjoy the good things around you or completely clear your mind. Different people find different stress management more effective, and you can always try different methods until you find the right one for you. Many people find that a hobby gives them something positive to think about. You can also unleash your creative side with some type of art, such as the growing trend of adult coloring books. You can keep a journal to express yourself safely. If you want to recharge your mind, you can take up meditation or even walks in nature. If you don’t know where to start, the best adult psychiatrists can help you figure out what will work for you, and whatever path you take, it it’s healthy to take time to get away from electronics and social media occasionally.
Physical Changes
Your physical health and mental health are closely linked, and either can affect the other in positive or negative ways. That means that if you treat your body well, you can improve your mental health and vice versa. Physical exercise releases endorphins that can help improve your mood. The best psychiatrists for anxiety can also help you learn how to practice mindfulness while exercising to get the most out of the experience and interrupt some of your negative thoughts. Your diet is important, since that affects the chemical makeup of your body and alters your brain activity. Getting enough water and quality sleep can also help soothe the mind and body.
Personal Interactions
H
umans are designed to be social. You should also surround yourself with people who will love and support you on your journey. Whether they’re friends or family members, they can create a positive impact in your life. On the flip side of this, many people find positive changes in their mental health when they start giving back to others. This could mean helping out your friends, or it could mean getting involved with a cause or another meaningful organization. This sense of community and purpose is a powerful force.
Professional Care
Many people benefit from having a professional to talk with. While it’s good to talk with family members and friends for that personal connection, a professional has experience communicating with people in a wide variety of situations, so they have valuable insights. The best psychiatrists also have a different, more objective view of the situation than your friends do. Just remember that even if you visit the best psychiatrist in Tallahassee, FL, you can only reap the benefits if you put in the time to make it work and you’re honest with yourself and your doctor.
If you’re looking for more specific ways to boost your own mental health, make an appointment with Florida First Psychiatry Specialist by calling 850-765-8120.
Florida First Psychiatry Specialist
Dr. Prasanti Tatini, Psychiatrist
All major credit cards accepted
