Mental health is complex, and at times, it can seem overwhelming or exhausting to keep up with everything we need to do to support our mental well-being. Sometimes, the most helpful changes aren’t big or complicated, but simple, everyday habits to include in our daily routine. When we check in with ourselves, it is helpful to look at four key areas and how well we are meeting our needs. These four areas are: structure, nutrition, sleep, and movement.
- Structure: Having a daily routine or consistent activities throughout your day can provide a sense of stability and control by increasing predictability. This might look like having regular bedtimes, setting aside time for self-care activities, making a weekly to-do list, or spending quality time with loved ones.
- Nutrition: Everyone has different dietary needs and restrictions, so it’s important to build an understanding of what you need to fuel your body. Other practices, such as having regular meals, staying hydrated, or sharing meals with others, can support your mood and energy levels.
- Sleep: Practicing good sleep hygiene and prioritizing your quality of sleep can improve mood, productivity, and focus. Having a consistent sleep schedule, reducing electronic use before bed, and aiming for at least 7 hours of sleep each night can improve our sleep hygiene.
- Movement: Incorporating movement, no matter how big or small, can improve sleep, reduce stress, and increase our energy and confidence. Movement should be personalized to fit your needs and abilities and should be an activity that is enjoyable for you. Even small activities such as stretching can be meaningful.
While these four areas aren’t cure-alls for mental health, they provide basic steps in improving our overall mental health. You might have noticed that each of these four areas are connected with each other; so it’s important to check in with all areas, not just one. Even making small changes in these four areas can be helpful in adding balance and support to your mental health journey.
About Emily Coogan:
Emily is a Resident in Counseling at Healthy Minds Therapy and is currently working towards licensure to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Emily takes a holistic approach that integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities to fit each client’s individual needs, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). She has experience working with preteens, teenagers, adults, and couples to help manage different life stressors such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions. Learn more about Emily HERE.