Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, yet it often takes a backseat to physical health in our daily lives. However, maintaining good mental health is crucial for leading a balanced and fulfilling life. People from all walks of life have discovered various strategies and habits that help them manage stress, reduce anxiety, and enhance their mental well-being. In this article, we’ll look at responses on Reddit from 18 individuals who share what helped improved their mental health. 

De-emphasizing the Importance of Every Thought

“De-emphasizing the importance of my every thought.” One person shared that realizing that not all of their thoughts are valid actually improved their mental health. Many people struggle with intrusive or negative thoughts, which can lead to anxiety and depression. By questioning and critically evaluating these thoughts, individuals can often find that they are baseless or exaggerated. For example, if a person constantly thinks they are inadequate, they can challenge this thought by listing their accomplishments and positive qualities. Over time, this practice can reduce the power of negative thoughts and improve overall mental well-being.

Leaving a Toxic Work Environment

One person shared that leaving a toxic work environment did wonders for their mental health. Another chimed in, “Even just having a negative co-worker leave the company [can help too]. My old boss complained constantly about everyone and everything. When he finally resigned, it felt like the sun coming out for the first time in 2 years.”

A toxic work environment can significantly impact mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout. When a person leaves such environments, they can experience immediate relief and improvements in their mental health. The absence of constant negativity, criticism, and unhealthy competition allows for a more positive and productive mindset. Moreover, finding a supportive and encouraging workplace can foster personal growth and job satisfaction. 

Quality Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for mental health. One person shared, “if only I’d realized this in my teens: people severely underestimate what a tremendous impact sleep has on your day, productivity, and mood.” Poor sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and cognitive impairments. Conversely, adequate and restful sleep improves mood, cognitive function, and overall mental health. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime are great practices to implement for improved sleep quality.

Daily Exercise and Outdoor Activities

Regular physical activity, especially outdoors, has profound benefits for mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. If you can exercise outdoors, even better, as exposure to sunlight boosts vitamin D levels and further enhances mood. Combining exercise with a healthy diet can lead to significant physical and mental health improvements, as can be attested by one Redditor, “Exercise every single day. I coupled it with giving up alcohol and cutting out sugary food. [I experienced] massive improvement both physically and mentally. Bad diet and sedentary life styles are incredibly destructive. I am now in my mid 50s, and I look better than I did in my mid 40s.”

Leaving a Challenging Teaching Environment

One person said that switching from teaching middle school to teaching high school had a remarkable impact on her mental health. Middle school teaching often involves managing a wide range of behavioral issues and academic abilities, which can be exhausting and stressful. She found that transitioning to high school, where students are more academically inclined and classes are often divided by interest and ability, offered a more rewarding and less stressful teaching experience. 

Spending Time Outdoors

One respondent simply said going outside had a positive impact on their mental health, which makes sense seeing as spending time in nature has a well-documented positive impact on mental health. Activities such as hiking, gardening, or simply walking in a park can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Exposure to nature has been shown to lower levels of cortisol and increase feelings of happiness and relaxation. Additionally, natural settings can provide a break from the constant stimulation of urban environments, allowing the mind to rest and rejuvenate.

Keeping Surroundings Clean and Organized

Another person said keeping their surroundings clean and organized significantly helped improve their mental health. Clutter and disorganization can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety, while a tidy environment promotes a sense of calm and control. Keeping your surroundings clean can also enhance productivity and reduce distractions. Simple habits like making the bed, organizing your workspace, and decluttering regularly can make a big difference in how you feel.

Removing Toxic People from Your Life

“Removing toxic people from my life,” one respondent said. “It’s amazing how much your mental health can improve just by removing someone who brings nothing but negativity to your life.” Eliminating toxic relationships can have a profound impact on mental health. Toxic individuals often contribute to stress, anxiety, and negative self-perception. By distancing yourself from these people, you can create a healthier and more supportive social environment. Find positive, uplifting individuals to surround yourself with, and you will find that this switch can improve your mood and boost your self-esteem.

Love Yourself

“Learning to love myself. A few years ago, I was in a very low spot with my self esteem, and I wanted to be better. My therapist and I talked a lot about treating myself like I would a friend. It sounds cheesy, but I started writing compliments to myself on post it notes in the morning and placing them on a mirror. It didn’t take too long before I started to believe them. It’s amazing how being nice to yourself and giving yourself grace can really improve your mental health.” Many people struggle with low self-esteem and negative self-talk. Learning to treat yourself with kindness and respect can significantly improve your mental well-being.

Having a Routine

“Having a routine. No matter what my schedule is for the day, whenever I’m in a routine of getting up, getting dressed and taking a shower, I’m in a good place.” Establishing and maintaining a routine can significantly improve mental health by providing structure and predictability in daily life. When you have a consistent routine, it sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. This sense of order can reduce anxiety and stress, as it eliminates the uncertainty of what comes next. Routines also help in managing time more efficiently, allowing for better productivity.

Being Grateful

“Being grateful for what I already have”

Practicing gratitude has been widely recognized as a powerful tool for enhancing mental health. By focusing on what you already have and appreciating the positive aspects of your life, you can shift your mindset from one of scarcity to one of abundance. This shift can lead to increased happiness, reduced stress, and a greater sense of overall well-being. Gratitude exercises, such as keeping a gratitude journal or expressing thanks to others, can strengthen social bonds and improve emotional resilience. 

Slow Down 

One person shared that their mental health improved when they stopped being in a hurry all the time, which is difficult, especially with the current American culture that emphasizes speed and productivity. Slowing down and reducing the sense of urgency in daily life can have profound effects on mental health. Constantly rushing and feeling pressured to meet immediate demands can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. By adopting a more mindful approach and allowing yourself to take things at a slower pace, you can reduce the physiological and psychological impacts of stress. This approach can help you become more present in the moment, improve decision-making, and enhance overall well-being. 

Avoiding Drama

One person said, “avoiding drama like it’s the plague” has improved their mental health. Engaging in or being exposed to drama can lead to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. By consciously avoiding dramatic situations and focusing on positive interactions, you can create a more peaceful and supportive environment. This can lead to improved emotional stability and a greater sense of control over your life. Set boundaries and learn to say no to toxic people and situations.

Actively Try To Relax

“Stress is poison, so everything I do is more or less related to trying to relax.”

Recognizing that stress is detrimental to mental health and taking proactive steps to manage it can lead to substantial improvements. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and other relaxation practices can help reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm. Additionally, engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and ensuring adequate rest are all important for maintaining mental well-being. As one respondent put it, “Stress is poison, so everything I do is more or less related to trying to relax.”

Becoming Selective In Media Consumption

“Becoming very mindful of the media I consume [has improved my mental health]. I no longer watch anything that isn’t upbeat and it has really changed how I feel.” Constant exposure to negative news, violent movies, or distressing TV shows can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and a pessimistic outlook on life. By choosing to watch upbeat, positive, or educational content, you can foster a more optimistic and relaxed state of mind. This mindful consumption of media can also reduce the impact of media-induced stress and improve overall emotional well-being. 

Creating with My Hands

“Creating. Especially making something with my hands” Engaging in creative activities, particularly those that involve making something with your hands, can be incredibly therapeutic for mental health. Activities such as painting, knitting, woodworking, or crafting can provide a sense of accomplishment, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. The act of creating something tangible can also enhance self-esteem and provide a constructive outlet for expressing emotions. The process of creating can also serve as a form of mindfulness, helping individuals stay present and focused, which further contributes to mental well-being.

Enjoying Fiction through TV Shows and Books

Immersing yourself in fictional worlds through TV shows and books can provide a much-needed escape from the stresses of everyday life. Engaging with well-crafted stories allows you to experience different perspectives and emotions. This can be particularly beneficial for mental health as it offers a temporary respite from real-life problems and can inspire feelings of hope and optimism. Additionally, fiction can stimulate the imagination and enhance cognitive functions such as empathy and critical thinking.

Having Pets

Pets can have a profound positive impact on mental health. The companionship and unconditional love provided by pets can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Interacting with pets can also lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mood. Pets can also encourage physical activity and provide a sense of purpose and routine. 

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Source: Reddit