There is a growing concern about mental health across the globe, but its effects can be felt in our communities. For some, mental hygiene concerns have become real, tangible challenges within our social circles and families.
One of the key contributors to good mental health is a personal commitment to mental hygiene. Mental hygiene can be defined as the concern and care for a ‘clean’ or healthy state of mind. This idea is simple enough. But, how do we nurture and maintain our mental hygiene? Initially, this seems complex and difficult to achieve. However, there are several steps we can take to consistently invest in our mental hygiene. Here are just a few tips to be mentally healthy:
1. Practice self-care
Self-care can be an excellent way to improve mental health. You can practice self-care by working on your skills, starting skincare, pursuing a hobby, etc. A very powerful and foundational exercise in self-care is to identify your personal purpose or meaning. This might involve some introspective questions like, “What do I want to contribute to life? What strengths and weaknesses do I bring to my purpose?” Then, invest in fulfilling your purpose or meaning through some of the ideas noted below. Self-care is one of the most effective tips to be mentally healthy.
2. Eat well and exercise
Diet and physical activity are essential when it comes to overall health and well-being. Therefore, make sure that you consume a healthy and balanced diet and stay physically active. There is a very strong symbiotic relationship between mental, emotional, and physical health. As you consider tips to be mentally healthy, you should understand that all elements of your well-being are connected and important.
3. Express and communicate
Expressing and communicating your emotions is essential to take pressure off of your mind. Therefore, make sure that you do not keep your bothersome thoughts bottled up. Trusted friends can be a wonderful resource for expressing your emotions and feeling understood. If it’s hard to open up with your own circle, even journaling your emotions can be a source of relief.
4. Make provision for optimism
Positivity and an optimistic outlook can go a long way in boosting one’s mental hygiene. However, individuals must make sure that they keep toxic optimism and toxic positivity at bay. Toxic optimism is finding a positive spin on any situation to the point it keeps one from admitting that there is a problem. It can also cause us to tell someone who is being handed a garbage sandwich, metaphorically speaking, that they should be grateful for the lunch. Toxic positivity involves dismissing negative emotions and responding to distress with false reassurances rather than empathy. It comes from feeling uncomfortable with negative emotions. It is often well-intentioned but can cause alienation and a feeling of disconnection. The key is to develop the ability to reframe a situation—acknowledge the bad and highlight the good. Perspective is hugely important in considering tips to be mentally healthy.
5. Try therapy
Seeking professional help is never a bad idea. If you want to boost your mental hygiene, you can opt for professional therapy for maximum benefits. Some companies even offer these services as part of their benefits package. Check with your workplace to see what resources are available to make therapy more accessible.
If you are struggling with your mental hygiene, don’t judge yourself. Many of us are. Just take one step toward investing in your mental hygiene with these tips to be mentally healthy. Then, after that step, you can take the next one.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.
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