Mentally healthy everyday
We hear a lot about wellbeing and how important it is for individuals and society more broadly.
Wellbeing has many benefits including better health outcomes, reduced mental health concerns, improved life satisfaction, engagement and productivity, greater resilience, stronger social connections and sense of community, just to name a few.
Our overall wellbeing relies on achieving good balance between physical and mental wellness.
The good news is that the two don’t work in isolation, they go hand-in-hand with each other and act as a catalyst for the other.
What is mental wellbeing?
Mental wellbeing is not just the absence of mental illness, it’s being in a good mental state to enjoy life with all of its ups and downs, including unexpected stresses.
It includes emotional resilience, a sense of purpose, strong relationships, and the ability to manage stress.
Mental wellbeing is dynamic and can change depending on life circumstances, but it can be nurtured and improved through daily habits and intentional practices.
Why is mental wellbeing important?
Mental wellbeing plays a vital role in every part of our lives. It influences how we think, feel, and behave, shaping our ability to manage stress, build relationships, and navigate challenges.
Good mental health supports our physical wellbeing, impacts our performance at work, and affects how we connect with others. It also influences how we see ourselves and interpret the world around us.
Did you know…?
Almost half of all Australians adults will face mental ill-health at some point in their life however research shows that high levels of wellbeing can reduce the risk of developing mental illness by up to eight times.
How can I improve my mental wellbeing?
The biggest difference in improving wellbeing is made over time with small, consistent actions.
Prioritising mental wellbeing means making space for rest, connection, reflection, and joy in your daily routine.
These small habits then become the baseline of resilience that you rely on when life presents you with challenges.
Think of building resilience and mental wellbeing like signing up to run a marathon – you don’t just go out and run a marathon on a whim, you train and build up the muscles and stamina required so you can run well on race day.
Give these tips a go to incorporate mental wellbeing habits into your daily routine.
1. Start your day with gratitude
Set yourself up for the day with a positive outlook and mood booster. Note down three things that you are thankful for each morning.
2. Connect with others
Social connection is a key pillar of mental health. Meaningful social interactions, even brief ones, can boost mood and reduce stress.
3. Get moving
Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormone. Regular physical activity, even a 10 minute stretch or walk can do you the world of good.
4. Make time for you
When life gets challenging, we make less time for ourselves. Make it a daily habit to do something for yourself each day that brings you joy, even just a few minutes can make a difference.
5. Sleep well
We all know the impact a bad night’s sleep can have on our mood, stress levels and cognitive function. Getting enough restorative rest and sleep is important for health and wellbeing so prioritise consistent, quality sleep to recharge your mind and body.
Do remember that what works for one person may not work for another so keep trying different things until you find what’s right for you and stay persistent – new things can be tricky at first but usually get easier with practice.
Building mental wellbeing into your day doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
You can create a strong foundation for long-term mental health by focusing on small, manageable actions each day.
It’s the little things done consistently that lead to big changes.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health, medical or financial advice. Always consult a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.