06/10/2025
Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is more than the absence of a mental illnessโitโs essential to your overall health and quality of life. Self-care can play a role in maintaining your mental health and help support your treatment and recovery if you have a mental illness.
How can I take care of my mental health?๐ง
Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. This can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact.
Here are some self-care tips:
๐Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so donโt be discouraged if you canโt do 30 minutes at one time.
๐Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Pay attention to your intake of caffeine and alcohol and how they affect your mood and well-beingโfor some, decreasing caffeine and alcohol consumption can be helpful.
๐Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure youโre getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
๐Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading, spending time in nature, and engaging in low-stress hobbies.
๐Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say โnoโ to new tasks if you start to feel like youโre taking on too much. Try to appreciate what you have accomplished at the end of the day.
๐Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down or replay them in your mind.
๐Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
Stay connected. Reach out to friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
๐Self-care looks different for everyone, and it is important to find what you need and enjoy. It may take trial and error to discover what works best for you.
Learn more about healthy practices from National Institute of Mental Health.