It’s hard to believe we’re nearly a quarter of a way into the year. While the New Year’s resolution brigade are certainly a lot quieter than they were a few months ago, there’s no doubt that a lot of people still seem to be on a health kick. Unfortunately, when we talk about looking after out health, too many of us are concerned with looking after our health in disappointingly superficial ways. Sure, a lean, fit body is a great indicator of good health, but it’s not the be all and end all. There’s so much going on beneath the surface, and in order to be truly healthy we need to consider all aspects of our health. There was a time when talking about mental health was a taboo subject, but in the (somewhat) more enlightened 21st century, more and more people are opening themselves up to talking about their mental health in an open and candid manner.
As important as it is to give our bodies a break, it’s important that our brains get a break too. If you feel anxious, down, depressed or in poor mental health, there’s no need to suffer in silence…
Talk to someone
If possible you should talk to a professional. If you feel anxiety, depression, social anxiety or any other form of mental distress from phobias to relationship troubles psychologists can help. Though you may not feel comfortable talking to a professional, they will be able to guide the conversation in ways that will enable you to find relief from your mental health issues, and even recommend psychopharmacological solutions to supplement your cognitive therapies.
If, however, the ideas of opening up to a stranger is just too difficult or uncomfortable to you, there’s even value in talking to a close friend or relative. ANything is better than suffering in silence.
Realign your cognitive processes
We all fall into bad habits in our thought processes that lead us to self destructive thoughts, low mood, poor self image and depression. We often level unfair and unflattering thoughts at ourselves and these can feed our neuroses. The good news is that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can really help us to challenge these thoughts before they can be allowed to take a toll on our mental health.
Over time, we can turn these thought processes into more helpful and constructive processes that can aid our mental health and self image rather than worsening them. This can be guided by a mental health professional or it can be done alone with an online CBT course.
Eat your way to sound mental health
You are what you eat, and just as we can’t expect to get a fit and healthy body without a good diet, neither can we expect a sound mind. When low mood strikes, load up on these good mood foods that are scientifically proven to aid mental health;
- Walnuts
- Whole grains
- Green, leafy veggies
- Dark berries
- Green tea
- Turmeric
These foods have all been linked to good brain health and can be incorporated into any diet plan to ensure that your brain gets healthier along with your body.
