Ten activities for improving your mental health

Try these tips to keep your balance, or re-balance yourself.

1. Value yourself:

Avoid self-criticism by treating yourself with kindness and respect. Make time for your favourite hobbies and projects, or broaden your horizons. Do a daily crossword puzzle, start a garden, learn to dance, play an instrument, or learn another language.

2. Take care of your body:

Physical self-care can help improve your mental health. Make certain to:

Consume nutritious foods.
Smoking and vaping should be avoided (see Cessation). Help
Consume plenty of water.
Exercise can help reduce depression and anxiety while also improving mood.
Get enough rest. Sleep deprivation, according to researchers, contributes to the high rate of depression among college students.

3. Surround yourself with good people:

People who have strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who do not. Make plans with supportive family and friends, or look for activities that will allow you to meet new people, such as a club, class, or support group.

4. Give yourself:

Volunteer your time and energy to assist others. You’ll feel good knowing you’ve done something tangible to help someone in need, and it’s a great way to meet new people. For more ideas, see Fun and Cheap Things to Do in Ann Arbor.

5. Learn how to deal with stress:

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, whether you like it or not. Try One-Minute Stress Strategies, Tai Chi, exercise, go for a nature walk, play with your pet, or try journal writing as a stress reliever. Remember to laugh and see the humour in life. Laughter has been shown in studies to boost your immune system, relieve pain, relax your body, and reduce stress.

6. Quiet your mind:

Try meditating, being mindful, and/or praying. Relaxation exercises and prayer can help you improve your mood and outlook on life. Indeed, studies show that meditation can help you feel calm and improve the effects of therapy. See Spiritual Resources for Students for more information on how to connect.

7. Set realistic goals:

Determine your academic, professional, and personal goals and write down the steps necessary to achieve them. Aim high, but be realistic and don’t overbook yourself. As you work toward your goal, you’ll feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Wellness Coaching, which is free for U-M students, can assist you in developing goals and staying on track.

8. Break up the monotony:

Although our routines help us be more efficient and increase our feelings of security and safety, a change of pace can liven up a monotonous schedule. Change your jogging route, go on a road trip, go for a walk in a different park, hang some new art, or try a new restaurant. More ideas can be found in Rejuvenation 101.

9. Avoid alcohol and other drugs:

Limit your alcohol consumption and abstain from other drugs. Alcohol and other drugs are sometimes used to “self-medicate,” but in reality, they only exacerbate problems. See Alcohol and Other Drugs for more information.

10. Get help when you need it:

Seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s also important to remember that treatment works. People who receive the proper care can recover from mental illness and addiction and live full, rewarding lives. For campus and community resources, see rehabilitation centres pretoria Resources for Stress and Mental Health.