mind over matter
Tips For Maintaining and Improving Mental Health
Today's urban lifestyles offer many conveniences and advantages our grandparents could not have imagined. At the same time, modern life has forced most humans to adapt to conditions that are quite contrary to the way our species evolved. Small wonder that so many people have mental health issues to some degree. If you live in a city and work a high-pressure, meaningless job, you are at significantly greater risk for mental disorders that include depression, chronic anxiety, and even schizophrenia.
Often, others will tell you to "just deal with it." That can be unhealthy as well, as people in denial often turn to substance abuse and other destructive behaviors to deal with it. The good news is there are far better paths to better mental health — this guide presented by Saltwater She Said explores a few.
Physical Health is Important to Mental Health
A big part of the equation lies in how well we take care of our bodies. Science has proven that the typical modern Western diet with its high levels of refined carbohydrates, sodium and saturated fat can make people significantly more likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders. So, the best thing you can do for your mental health is to replace such foods with choices dense in nutrients. These include leafy greens, nuts and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Physical activity is another vital component of mental health. You don't need to shell out big bucks on a health club membership; it can be as simple as going for a 30-minute walk every day. Just doing this goes a long way toward improving one's mental and emotional outlook.
Contact With the Natural World
Humans are descended from primate forest dwellers. Being in an outdoors setting is encoded in our DNA. According to many scientific studies, being in an outdoors setting, even if it is a park or urban green space can reduce anxiety and lift a person's mood. Alternatively, bring a bit of the outdoors into your home with some houseplants or a pet or two.
About Companion Animals
Modern research has shown that even short periods of time spent with domestic animals such as dogs, cats, or even horses can reduce blood pressure and respiratory rate. If you are currently undergoing therapy with a professional, you may be able to have your dog or cat certified as an emotional support animal. That way, the animal can accompany you at all times. Your therapist can assist you in this regard.
Need a Career Change?
Not surprisingly, the jobs people must work simply to stay fed and housed are a common source of mental health problems. Fortunately, today's online degree programs make training for a new career much easier than it was in the last century. You don't even need to quit your current job. For example, online universities such as WGU.edu offer excellent nursing degree programs that you can complete at home and on your own schedule.
As Without, So Within
"Cleanliness is next to Godliness," as the old saw goes—and that includes our surroundings. If you are surrounded by clutter, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. A good rule of thumb is if you haven't used or looked at it in a year or more, get rid of it. You can also find many excellent ideas for organizing and purging online.
You need not undergo expensive therapy to improve your mental health. Just make a few simple changes and you will be amazed at how much better you feel.
“MIND OVER MATTER”
Featuring guest writer, Camille Johnson.