Mental Health is Health
Although our minds and bodies are often viewed as separate, they are actually interconnected. Physical health, like getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and staying active, plays a large role in your mental well-being and vice versa.
People with physical health conditions are more likely to develop mental health conditions. In turn, a good mental state can keep you healthy and help prevent serious health conditions. If you want to improve your overall well-being, you should take care of both your physical and mental health. Keep reading or download our Mental Health is Health flyer for tips on ways to take care of your mental and physical health.
Here are a few ways to take care of your mental and physical health:
Get Regular Exercise
Exercise keeps you physically fit, and it can help improve your mood. This means just getting up from your desk for a 10-minute walk can help increase your mental alertness, leaving you energetic and in a good mood.
Eat a proper diet
A diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed sugars or fats can make you feel better physically and mentally.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Drinking and smoking may make you feel better in the short term, but they can have a negative effect on your physical and mental health.
Get Enough Sleep
Mental health conditions can lead to sleep problems and sleep problems can make mental health conditions worse. Be sure you are getting enough sleep. Adults need anywhere from seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
Try Relaxation Techniques
Meditation, deep breathing and focusing your thoughts can help when you are feeling stressed.
Develop Good Mental Practices
Try to focus on positive emotions and events rather than negative ones.
Seek Help From Others
Talking with friends or family members can help you feel less stressed. Getting others to help with difficult situations can also reduce the burden you feel.