Having good mental health is critical to leading a happy life. Although this may seem like common sense, it can be difficult for people to know how to improve their mental health. There are many things you can do to care for your mental well-being, like having a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise.
You can also get some things for your home that can help. Setting up your environment with tools to care for yourself can be a great way to promote overall well-being. Most things on the list below are relatively inexpensive but can improve your mental health immensely.
A diffuser itself can cost anywhere between 15 and 30 dollars, though different oils vary widely in price. What is great about an oil diffuser is that it not only makes your home smell nice but it can also give you mood boosts. Some oils are great for promoting relaxation, others help you focus, and others can calm your nerves. Keep in mind that some oils are not safe for pets, so use caution when diffusing certain oils if you have furry friends in your home.
A journal is an inexpensive, easily accessible item that is great for your mental health. Whether you journal about your day, write a story, or just doodle, a journal can get you out of your head for a few minutes. This is a great alternative to meditation because it allows you to step outside of your daily activities and be in the moment while also keeping your hands occupied.
A timer may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to mental health, but it can be beneficial for monitoring your habits. You could buy a physical timer or simply use one on your phone. If you find that you are spending too much time on your phone, a timer can help regulate your time spent scrolling.
A timer is also great when trying to make new habits. For example, if you are just starting out trying to meditate or journal, you might set a timer for 2 minutes one day, the next set it for 3 minutes, and so on. This allows you to ease into a new habit without overwhelming yourself.
According to a 2014 study by the American Public Health Association, a well-balanced diet can help stimulate positive mental health. A blender can be used as a great tool to get the vitamins and minerals you need in your daily diet in the form of a smoothie, especially if there are things that you are not particularly fond of. For example, spinach and kale are very nutritious, but not everyone likes them. If that sounds like you, try mixing them with a berry blend to get all the vitamins with none of the taste.
Much like the blender, this may not seem like an obvious choice, but studies show that working out boosts mental health. Having weights or other workout equipment around the house is great for boosting mental health all year round. They do not have to be very heavy—a few pounds will suffice. The weights are not for building muscle as much as they are to get your blood pumping through to release chemicals in the brain that help with mental health.
Kinetic sand and zen gardens may seem childish, but they promote mindfulness and allow you to stay in the moment. These products keep your hands occupied which can create a calming sensation that is less involved than something like journaling. These products are also inexpensive, making them an excellent item for promoting positive mental health.
There are many mental health benefits that come from plants. Depending on the kind you get, they can be catered to the specific type of mental health benefit you need. If you are having trouble sleeping or feel anxious at your home, some types of plants can help, while others greatly improve air quality or smell nice for a sensory boost.
While this list includes items that can boost mental health, it is also important to mention things and habits to avoid when it comes to mental health. The biggest thing to look out for is staying stagnant for too long. It is okay to scroll on your phone or watch TV for a bit, but monitor how long you are doing those activities, then get up and get active or productive. Scrolling through social media can also throw you into a comparison spiral, which can take away from your mental health. Bad eating habits, isolation, and substance abuse can all take a toll on your mental well-being as well.
Mental health is the key to long-lasting recovery. Without it, your recovery may backslide. It is one thing to stay sober; it's another to be happy. When your mental health thrives, you can be sober and happy. Sometimes you might find yourself in a depressive rut, unable to get out. If you are struggling with your mental health or sobriety NorthStar Transitions is here to help. Located in Boulder, CO, NorthStar has experienced professionals who can help you better yourself so you can live your best possible life. They offer support and can teach you skills that lead to lasting recovery and a healthy mental state. If you or someone you know is in need of treatment, we can be the ones to help. Take the first steps by calling us today at (303) 558-6400 to learn more about how we can help.
