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I’m a psychiatrist and here are the 5 best ways to improve your mental health at home Credits: Social Media
By Ellissa Bain

I’m a psychiatrist and here are the 5 best ways to improve your mental health at home

By Ellissa Bain

It is estimated that�more than one in five US adults live with a mental illness, but many don’t know what steps to take to improve their mental health.

With World Mental Health Day approaching on October 10, it’s the perfect time to reduce the social stigma and raise awareness, and a psychiatrist has shared the best ways to improve your mental health at home.

Rear view of an unrecognisable mature man sitting on his bed looking out of the window - negative emotion
Credit: Justin Paget (Getty Images)

5 ways to improve your mental health at home

“Mental health isn’t limited to just mental illness,” said Dr. Michael Olla. “It’s our overall psychological well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. It includes how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions.”

“Good mental health means being able to function in daily life and coping with challenges. It’s influenced by biological factors, life experiences, and our environment,” he continued.

The psychiatrist recommends the following five things to improve your own mental health through self-help measures.

1. Do regular exercise

Physical activity releases endorphins, the ‘feel good’ hormone which improves your mood and reduces stress. It doesn’t have to be an intense gym session either, even just walking your dog can improve your mental health.

2. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients will ensure you are well-fuelled and have high energy levels, which affects your mood. It’s also really important to stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine, which could have a negative effect.

3. Get enough sleep

Not getting enough sleep can impact your mental health too as your mind and body doesn’t have ample time to rest, recharge and repair. Most adults need around 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, the NHS explains.

4. Good social connections

Having good social connections is important as this prevents feelings of loneliness and isolation. People who feel more connected to others have better mental health, so it’s important to surround yourself with good people who improve your life.

5. Practice mindfulness

Finally, it’s a great idea to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as meditation which can keep you calm. Breathing exercises can help you to relax and manage stress when life feels a bit overwhelming.

The single man meditating alone at home while listening to meditation music through wireless headphones, doing breathing exercises.
The single man meditating alone at home while listening to meditation music through wireless headphones, doing breathing exercises. Young man taking care of his mental health. Solo home workout and meditation, morning or evening workout routine. Credit: Halfpoint Images (Getty Images)

When to seek professional mental health help

If all of these things don’t make you feel any better, you should speak to a doctor who will be able to provide further support.

Some mental health issues are caused by lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and substance use, MedlinePlus explains, but others may require professional help.

For example, if your low mental health is caused by life experiences, such as grief, trauma or abuse, you may benefit from therapy.

Some mental illnesses like depression can occur due to biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry, which can be helped with medication.

Dr. Michael Olla is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery, a premier addiction treatment centre dedicated to providing compassionate, personalised care for individuals seeking recovery.