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Step 1
Have FunOne of the best things you can do to improve mental health is to have fun. I'm not talking about what's fun for someone else, but what is fun to you. This could mean flying a kite or sitting in a hot tub with a glass of champagne. Whatever it is that you enjoy that is exactly what you need to do and do it on a regular basis.
It's the little things that make a difference in our lives. Something as simple as smelling a flower can change a mindset within seconds. We're not talking about spending money, at least not yet, but taking time to take care of your inner self; the part that gets neglected. -
Step 2
ExerciseTime for yourself needs to be a priority if you don't take care of yourself then you're no benefit to anyone else. Exercise is a great way to take care of yourself and is known to help improve mental health. So why not sign up for an exercise class with a friend? This way you can get in shape and socialize at the same time.
When you exercise be sure it's not something you dread since this would defeat your purpose. But instead, choose something you enjoy such as swimming, cycling, walking, a team sport or perhaps something a little more daring like belly dancing. Whatever it is you do, do it on a consistent basis. -
Step 3
VolunteerSpending time with friends and family is another way to bring joy into your life. Most everyone has a friend or two that lifts their spirit and makes them laugh. I don't know if there's anything that picks people up like laughing and having a good time.
If you don't have family or friends then you could volunteer and help those less fortunate than yourself. As bad as you think you have it there's always someone else who has it worse. Crazy as it sounds helping someone else is an excellent way to change your mindset. In other words, transfer focus off of you and onto someone else then it's a win, win and you both get the help you need. -
Step 4
TherapyWhat makes one person happy doesn't work for another. Only you know what you want or need to bring joy into your life. If you find yourself sinking into depression, then it's time to seek a professional. There's no shame in this, in fact, it's the strong ones who confront and the weak that stay in the mess and do nothing about it.
If nothing else you can self help and use books and tapes to improve mental health. There really is no excuse these days for staying down and out when there's so many resources available. Some people use anti-depressants, but its best to get off of them as soon as possible.
Avoid negative people and spend time with those full of joy and peace, so that you stay in a positive environment. The choices you make today are your future, so it's in your best interest to make the right ones.
Comments
KaraDiablo said
on 10/19/2009 Well thought out and very important article.
bellerose said
on 9/15/2009 Excellent tips. It's a good idea to involve yourself in finding the right way to improve your mental health. 5*
igislandgirl said
on 9/15/2009 Thanks for the good tips on improveing your mental health. With my large extended family any thing could help..
2enjoylife said
on 6/9/2009 Saw a license plate frame today that said, "Decide to be happy." I thought it was so true. We really have the power to choose our own mental health.
jujudy said
on 5/12/2009 Excellent advice on how to improve mental health. Getting a focus outside yourself is one of the quickest and best ways to perk up--whether it is through exercise, engaging in a fun activity, or the other useful tips you provided. Your article is a good read. 5*s