8 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Mental Health

Summary

In this video, Psych2Go shares eight healthy habits to improve mental wellbeing. These habits include adopting an upright posture, practicing positive thinking, spending time in nature, hugging others, bonding with pets, exercising, getting enough sleep, and keeping a gratitude journal. Each habit is backed by scientific research showing how they positively impact mood, self-esteem, and overall mental health. The video encourages viewers to incorporate these habits into their daily lives for a more balanced and emotionally fulfilling routine.

Takeaways

• 😀 Adopting an upright posture can reduce fatigue and improve mood, especially in those with mild depression.
• 😀 Positive thinking is essential for mental well-being, helping to counteract negative self-perceptions.
• 😀 Spending time in nature, even for just five minutes, can boost mood and improve emotional health.
• 😀 Hugs and physical touch release oxytocin, which can increase optimism and self-esteem.
• 😀 Spending time with pets can significantly reduce stress, with just 10 minutes of petting lowering cortisol levels.
• 😀 Regular exercise releases endorphins that promote happiness and improve mental well-being.
• 😀 Getting enough sleep, ideally 8 hours a night, is crucial for both physical and emotional health.
• 😀 Lack of sleep can worsen depression and emotional health, especially for those already struggling with insomnia.
• 😀 Keeping a gratitude journal or writing daily gratitude lists can enhance happiness and overall mental health.
• 😀 Simple acts like stretching, walking in nature, and hugging can significantly improve mental health and well-being.

Q & A

Why is adopting an upright posture beneficial for mental health?

Adopting an upright posture can reduce fatigue and improve mood. Studies have shown that it may help increase positive emotions, reduce fatigue, and decrease self-focus in people with mild to moderate depression.

How can positive thinking impact your mental wellbeing?

Positive thinking can counteract negative feelings and promote a sense of self-worth. Using words that encourage self-compassion, like 'I'll do better next time,' can help shift your mindset and improve mental health.

What is the benefit of taking a walk in nature for mental health?

Spending just five minutes in nature can improve mood, self-esteem, and overall emotional wellbeing. Nature contact has been linked to both hedonic and self-transcendent emotions, boosting mental health.

What psychological benefits can hugging someone provide?

Hugging releases oxytocin, the 'cuddle hormone,' which is associated with higher self-esteem and optimism. It can also improve feelings of control and mastery, which help in coping with stress and depression.

How does spending time with a pet improve mental health?

Spending time with pets, such as petting cats or dogs, can significantly reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. Just 10 minutes of pet interaction can provide momentary relief from stress.

Why is exercise important for mental health?

Exercise releases endorphins and other brain chemicals that naturally boost happiness and wellbeing. It not only benefits physical health but also significantly improves mental health by enhancing mood and reducing anxiety.

How much sleep should adults aim for to maintain mental health?

Adults should aim for about eight hours of sleep each night. Insufficient sleep has been linked to worsened mental health, including an increased risk of depression and emotional distress.

What are the effects of lack of sleep on individuals with depression?

A lack of sleep can worsen the emotional wellbeing of people with depression. Insomnia is common in those with depression, which may further exacerbate mental health issues.

How can a gratitude journal improve mental wellbeing?

Keeping a gratitude journal, where you list things you're thankful for, can boost happiness and mental health. This practice encourages positive thinking and improves overall emotional wellbeing.

What are the benefits of writing down things you're thankful for each day?

Writing down what you're grateful for each day fosters feelings of appreciation and positivity, which can improve mental health. This practice helps shift focus away from negative emotions and enhances emotional resilience.