Cherishing Our Mental Health
10 Ways to Boost Mental Well-Being
Caring for our mental and emotional health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. For Mental Health Awareness Month, during the month of May, we encourage others to tend to their mental health needs. Studies have shown that women are twice more likely to deal with depressive or anxiety disorders than are men and commonly deal with mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression and eating disorders[1]. There are steps we can take on our own to make sure that we address our mental health needs. Below are ten ways we can work towards improving our mental and emotional health.
- Remove the Toxic Energy
Allow yourself to know what is best for you and what is tearing you down. Anything that brings you anger, sadness, fear or doubt is not needed or welcomed in your life. Make it a habit to mentally (or physically) record the way certain people or situations make you feel, and remove yourself from any companionship, crowd or place that does not sit well with your spirit.
- Treat Your Body Well
Begin to view exercise and healthy eating in a positive light. See it as a necessity for you to be your best self. Regular exercise can help to lift your mood and boost your emotional wellness. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day, increase your fruit and veggie intake, and reduce the amount of unhealthy foods.
[1] http://www.psychiatry.org/mental-health/people/women
AFIYA Magazine looks to enhance the awareness and knowledge of wellness issues important to African-American women while providing a platform for us to grow, expand, and develop within our personal and professional lives.