5 Ways to Improve Mental Health
During challenging times, whether you’re well-established in sobriety or just commencing recovery, global circumstances impact mental health. Uncertainty, financial stress, and social disruptions can affect well-being. Here, we offer tips to improve mental health at any time.
Move It
In a state like Oregon, known for its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities, engaging in regular movement can significantly improve mental health and well-being. Researchers highlight the positive effects of exercise on reducing anxiety, and depression, and enhancing self-esteem and cognitive function.
Even a simple walk amidst Oregon’s scenic landscapes can work wonders, relieving stress, enhancing memory, and boosting overall mood. Regular physical activity in Oregon’s picturesque settings can help you feel renewed and enhance your mental health, no matter the circumstances.
Seek Out Support
Evidence has shown that robust social networks improve mental health outcomes. If you’ve been cut off from family and friends because of the pandemic, seeking out new avenues for social connection can be vital to staying sane.
As hard as it can be, picking up the phone or setting up a virtual hangout can be a lifeline. What’s more – loneliness has been shown to decrease people’s immune function, so there is every reason to get connected during these times! The good news is other people need support as much as you do, so if you feel hesitant, just remind yourself that you are probably doing them a favor too.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness. We hear this word thrown around with astonishing frequency—so much so that it seems like becoming more mindful can be a panacea for anything that ails us. Put simply, being mindful simply means being fully tuned in and present to the moment at hand. It is being attentive to where you are, right here, right now. For those of us who have been held captive by the demands of our thoughts and emotions, mindfulness can improve mental health.
It involves the practice of being aware of your thoughts and feelings, and letting them roll by – like cars passing on the road. Instead of letting each thought take you for a ride, try just noting them, and remaining observant and non-judgmental. Over time, we can use this practice to find some real peace, unravel habitual thought patterns, and get free of the mental circus.
Consider Others
Not always the most obvious choice when we feel bad, but taking some time to be helpful to others can offer a quick antidote to anxiety and feeling blue. Research has shown that helping others can significantly boost feelings of wellbeing.
Calling to see how someone else is doing is easy, quick, and free. Helping an elderly neighbor get groceries or run an errand can also be invaluable. Many people are finding a renewed sense of purpose and community by volunteering at local food banks. If you can’t think of anything to do, a quick search online will probably yield some good suggestions.
For those with serious, ongoing mental health issues, getting outside help will also be a critical component to getting back on track.
Ask for Help When You Need It
Let’s be real – many of us have moments during the pandemic that feel like we are in the midst of a mental health crisis. This IS hard. But for people with a mental health diagnosis, regular care plans may need to be stepped up during this time of increased stress, crucial for improving mental health. Getting in touch with your care team, counselor, doctor, or therapist, and discussing your feelings and symptoms can be the first step in finding some peace and actively working to improve mental health. Letting people know what is going on with you can be lifesaving.
If you or someone you know needs help, we are here for you. SLO Recovery Center remains a safe space for those with mental health struggles, and we maintain a COVID-free environment.
We believe in treating the whole person. We have assembled an unrivaled team of counselors, and therapeutic and administrative professionals. Together, we bring decades of experience in connecting people with real solutions ti improve mental health outcomes. Our staff is committed to finding the right treatment plan to suit each individual’s needs.
Get in touch today and learn more about how we can offer you support with recovery, mental health, trauma, and more.