The year 2021 so far has been a sequel to the year 2020. Establishments still run at a limited capacity, you still need to wear a mask when you go out in public, and staying at home is still recommended. This raised a concern on how it’s affecting people’s mental health. Last year, it was reported that about forty percent of people had developed mental health disorders amidst the pandemic.
While these trying times may take a toll on your mental health, there are ways you can better cope with the stress. Here are five tips that can help you take better care of your mental health.
5 Tips for Better Mental Health this 2021
-
Get Enough Sleep
An average adult needs 7-9 hours of sleep a day to feel well-rested. Get as much sleep you need to help you get through the day. Chronic sleep deprivation can cause a series of conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and even depression.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, consider all the activities you do before going to bed. If you have the tendency to use your phone or watching television before going to bed, you will have a tougher time falling asleep because your mind is still stimulated. Try less strenuous activities like reading a book or having a conversation with a loved one over a cup of sleepy time tea.
-
Eat a Healthy Diet
Diets are not just for your quarantine glow up goals.
The food that we put in our bodies has a direct effect on our mental health. Here are facts on dietary food:
- Healthy food choices contain enzymes that can boost serotonin levels.
- People with depression often have a deficiency in iron and lower levels of Zinc and Vitamin C.
- Omega 3s can improve thinking and memory.
Eating a well-balanced diet rich in these nutrients can significantly affect your everyday mood.
-
Exercise
Exercise can improve cognitive function and boost your self-esteem. But you don’t need to dive in headfirst into high-intensity workouts if it isn’t quite a pace you’re comfortable with. Any form of physical activity will have a positive effect on your mental health. Many people turn to yoga, which can help with anxiety and depression. Light walks around the neighborhood can also help you clear your mind.
-
Take Breaks from Social Media
Social media has its perks, but it also has its disadvantages. These online platforms do keep you connected with friends and family and can help you meet new people online. And yes, they do provide entertainment.
But social media can also potentially harm your view in life. When you’re stuck at home, it’s hard not to be jealous of celebrities quarantining in their million-dollar mansions or going on trips despite being in the middle of the pandemic. Posts of models by the poolside of their homes can also subconsciously lower your own self-esteem.
It’s important to remember that none of these people live perfect lives. Nobody posts about their lowest moments online, so what you’re seeing is just what they want you to see. But it is still important for you to take breaks from the online world and take time to live in the moment.
-
Be Consistent
Once you form healthy habits, the real challenge is to maintain them through and through. The more these things become a habit to you, the easier it becomes to start coping with negativity at times like this.
Conclusion
While these tips can help improve your wellbeing, it does not mean that they can solve all mental health issues. Mental health is complex and should be taken as seriously as physical health. If you have problems that need professional intervention, do not be afraid to approach a therapist. They can properly diagnose you and propose a proper treatment. Acknowledging that you need help gets you one step closer to taking control of your mental health this year.
For more on mental health or health in general, subscribe to TheSkinny, a free health newsletter dedicated to providing the best and most useful health news and insights.
