Everyone can take an active role in maintaining and improving their mental health. Discover some good resolutions to take. Here are some good resolutions for our mental health.
Summary
The beginning of the year gives us the opportunity to take stock of the past months, reflecting on the projects carried out, the challenges that have arisen, and the lessons learned. It is also an opportunity to set one or more new goals for the coming year. The ancestral tradition of New Year’s resolutions facilitates new beginnings.
And if mental health is sometimes seen as the business of psychology experts, a lot of research proves that each person can play an essential role in this area. The start of the year can therefore help us to implement activities that are beneficial for mental health. There is no quick fix, but you can adapt these items to your own situation.
Physical exercise
Several studies indicate that physical activity is essential for good mental health. When we move, our body releases natural endorphins that improve mood. Researchers have also shown that exercise would be as effective as psychotropic drugs in reducing symptoms of depression, says Psychology Today .
Social commitment
Social activity and support promote mental health by protecting the brain from the negative effects of acute and chronic stress . Some research suggests that socialization would be particularly beneficial when it involves an altruistic contribution, as in the case of volunteering for example.
Spirituality
Believers seem to benefit from a reduced risk of depression, addiction and suicide. In question, explain the researchers, the fact that the religious community in places of worship helps to feel supported. Believing in a superior entity would also provide some comfort in difficult times . This spirituality can take many forms, ranging from yoga, meditation, contact with nature, to all existing religions.
Nature
More and more studies indicate that the rate of mental illness is lower in rural areas than in cities. This difference is linked to various factors, including contact with nature . Spending time in the countryside provides a space for reflection and meditation, which promotes exercise such as hiking, and increases exposure to sunlight .
Letting go
High levels of perfectionism are thought to be associated with mental illnesses such as depression and eating disorders. Wanting everything to be perfect leads to a constant feeling of worry and failure, as well as strong criticism of yourself and others. The cognitive behavioral therapy can help to accept his own shortcomings and address the everyday in a more realistic way.
How to protect your mental health in case of bad news?
Listening to depressing information can increase the stress and anxiety of emotionally fragile people.
We are sadly “getting used to” the news of bombings, shootings and terrorist acts. Newspapers, radios, websites, daily newspapers and magazines regularly report tragedies. It goes without saying that the people directly affected are much more affected than those who assist, helplessly, from the outside. But the consequences for any listener, viewer, Internet user or reader can be significant.
In fragile mental health and high risks of depression, post-traumatic symptom and anxiety , this effect can be increased tenfold, indicates the experts. The good news is that there are ways to protect yourself:
Limit information
The first reflex when you hear about a dramatic event is to try to find out more. However, once you are aware of the first elements, the details will only serve to increase your stress, anxiety and depression. You can therefore turn off the screens and put away the journal.
Take care of yourself
The bad news around you can make you lose awareness of your well-being. You forget to go out, play sports, eat a balanced diet and heal your relationships. A small voice tells you that you do not deserve to live normally while others are suffering. But inflicting such sadness does not help the victims, or yourself.
Caring for others
You can tap into grief to feel in solidarity with those around you. Get active: help the victims if you are there, donate your blood, participate financially, or simply help the people around you. A free act of kindness can change a person’s day.
READ MORE:
Broccoli, A superfood everyone should eat.
The (very) complete guide to intermittent fasting
Gluten: Advantages and Disadvantages
Eat Fat To Lose Weight on Ketogenic Diet
Free Navratri Diet Plan | Navratri Fasting : Facts & Benefits