Mental health is a multifaceted issue, and there are several different approaches that can make a difference in your happiness and well-being. Whether you’re feeling run down, burnt out, or overwhelmed, here are some tips to try to give your mental health a boost:

1. Rely on your support system. Surrounding yourself with a good support system can help you better manage all the stressors that life may throw at you [ [1] Make time to be with those in your circle who love and support you.
2. Make time for things that you enjoy doing. It can be easy to get carried away with all the pressures and responsibilities on your plate, but it’s also important to make enough time for yourself. Intentionally carve out time in your week so that you can focus on the things that you actually enjoy doing and boost your spirits. Additionally, something we love to recommend to people is being involved with volunteer work and giving back to others and their community.
3. Spend more time in the great outdoors. Spending time in “green spaces” is often associated with better mental health [2]. Visit your local park or take a trip out to a nice nature hike so that you can give yourself a chance to refresh in the sunshine and fresh air.  
4. Consume more positive media. The food you feed your body directly affects your physical health, and the media you consume can also directly affect your mental health. Be mindful of what you’re “feeding” your eyes and brain, and recognize when it’s time to step away from the screens completely.
5. Keep a gratitude journal. When we’re stressed out and unhappy, it’s easy to dwell on the negatives. However, some research exists that suggests that incorporating more “gratitude exercises” can positively impact your mental health and overall well-being [3]. As you’re unwinding at night, take time to write down all of the things that made you happy that day.

6. Make sure to get plenty of exercise and eat a healthy diet. Your physical and mental health are closely interlinked. Schedule in plenty of time every week to move your body, and focus on eating a varied diet with plenty of whole foods. Taking calming supplements like CopaCalm can also be helpful for supporting your stress response.

7. Find positive outlets for your stress. High stress levels from work and responsibilities can often manifest in unhealthy coping mechanisms. Dive into a creative hobby or a physical sport that you enjoy to help manage those stressful moments in a healthier way.

8. Try therapy. Talking to a mental health professional can be crucial for learning how to manage your emotions and take control of your mental health. Any time is a good time to start therapy, but it can be especially helpful if you start to feel as though your mental health needs an intervention.

9. Prioritize your sleep. Getting enough sleep is an important but often undervalued tool for keeping your mind healthy. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night when possible.  

10. Work on improving your mindfulness. Mindfulness practices focus on keeping you present and in the moment, rather than stressing about the next big thing to come. Make time throughout the day to focus solely on how you’re feeling and coping rather than stressing about what’s to come.

Research / Support Links:

• [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921311/
• [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310728/
• [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8582291/