Best Habits For Mental Health

Stay Active

One of the most beneficial things individuals can do to improve their mental health is to stay active and engage in frequent exercise. Exercise, like psychiatric medication, can increase the brain’s levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which can lead to reduced stress levels, happier moods, increased cognitive function, and higher self-esteem. Exercise can enhance the effects of psychiatric medications as well. It is important to find a form of exercise that is enjoyable. You should look forward to exercising, rather than seeing it as yet another chore to squeeze in. Exercise doesn’t need to involve hours of running on a treadmill—hiking, dancing, team sports, running, martial arts, gardening, swimming, or joining a fitness class are all good options. Meditative exercises, such as tai chi or yoga, can help with relaxation and are also good for individuals with physical limitations that make more vigorous exercise difficult.