Here’s the thing about mental health – you don’t have to wait until you fall sick before seeking help. Practising habits to build good mental health is something you can do right now – like how brushing your teeth regularly helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Here are some simple tips to help you on your journey to better mental wellness.

1. Don’t neglect quality sleep
   Good, quality sleep is so important for our mental and physical health – it’s when our minds rest and reset, and our body heals. It also supports physical brain health. Get a good pillow, practice habits to help you sleep better, and avoid looking at the screen before sleep to give yourself time to wind down.
2. Get moving
   Mental health and physical health are intertwined, from both a chemical and psychological perspective. Endorphins released from working out makes you feel good, and healthy people tend to worry less about illness, paying for medical bills, and so on. You don’t have to run a full marathon or try hyrox, instead, try some low-impact stretching, dance, or jump on the pickleball bandwagon!
3. Seek nature
   The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku (森林浴) or forest bathing focuses on spending 5 to 10 minutes in nature as a way of reconnecting with yourself amidst a busy life and schedule. If you can’t get to the forest, go to a local park and sit under a tree instead.
4. Experience something new & journal it
   Doing something different and breaking your usual routine can give your mind a much needed boost. Whether it’s vising a new place, picking up a skill, or exploring a hobby, new experiences are a great way to refresh your perspectives. Then, journal about it to process your thoughts and feelings. It’s a great habit that also calms the mind.
5. Practice kindness
   Doing good actually makes you feel good in return – and it positively impacts someone else too! Buy a coffee for the person in line behind you, volunteer to build houses for the underprivileged, hold the door open for someone, or just smile – it spreads!
6. Manage your finances
   One of the major causes of stress is your financial situation, especially if you’re struggling. But stress doesn’t solve problems. Instead, come up with a plan to manage your finances, find ways to make additional income, focus on paying off debt, and cut back on unnecessary spending.
7. A calming space
   Create a calming space for yourself, whether at home, or a cosy corner at your favourite café. It’s a place to go to when things get overwhelming and you need a moment to reset.
8. Get a furry friend
   Cuddles from a pet can significantly help with your mental health, but if you can’t afford to look after one, “borrow” a friend’s pet, go to a pet café, or volunteer at an animal shelter.
9. Set your boundaries
   Trying to please everyone can cause unnecessary stress, so don’t be afraid to say no and take some time for yourself.
10. Eat healthy
    They say you are what you eat, so consume food that is good for your body and brain. Avoid regular intake of junk food, alcohol, cigarettes or drugs as they can cause dependency and addiction and lead to decreased mental health, even if it makes you feel good for a while.
11. Find your self
    Many issues of poor mental health among younger generations have been linked to social media as it creates comparisons between one’s self and influencers who seem to have everything. It’s important to remember that they only reveal the good things. Love yourself because you love who you are, instead of basing it on likes or external validation from people you don’t even know.
12. Connect and talk it out
    Surrounding yourself with people who matter can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing. Spending time with loved ones reminds you that you’re not alone. When things get tough, talking to someone you trust can help you gain perspective and lighten the load.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to caring for your mental health, and what works best for you may not be right for your bestie. Don’t be afraid to explore other ideas either, just avoid anything that can be detrimental to your physical or even financial wellbeing. And if you’re still struggling, consider speaking to a professional.