Have you noticed the difference in how you feel when you start your day scrolling on your phone in bed compared to going for a walk in the fresh air? Have you noticed a change in your mood when you go to the gym after work, instead of heading to the couch to watch a show for the evening? Our daily routines heavily impact our mental health, and some of our habits may be more damaging than others. We’ve compiled a few common ones that could be helping or hurting your mental health.
Habits That Hurt Your Mental Health
Mindless Scrolling: It’s easy to find yourself logging into social media for a quick check-in only to find that 30 minutes have gone by. You get distracted watching one trend after another, and before you know it, you get stuck mindlessly scrolling on your phone. While social media can be a place of connection, it often becomes an environment for comparison—which can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, even on a subconscious level.
Lack of Movement: After a long day of work, it’s easy to convince yourself to skip the gym and relax at home. However, lack of movement can have a negative consequence on your mental health. Our bodies are designed to move, and physical activity isn’t just about staying in shape. Physical activity provides an outlet to release stress and clear your head. Without it, you may find yourself more stressed and less able to sleep.
Inconsistent Sleep Routine: Studies show there is a link between lack of sleep and mental health. Following a rough night of sleep, you may find yourself with increased anxiety, lack of motivation, and affected concentration. Instead of winding down at night with a book, journal, or mindfulness practice, many people resort to scrolling on their phone or watching a movie which can keep your brain active longer.
Habits That Help Your Mental Health
Social Interactions: Whether you join a book club, sign up for pottery lessons, or grab coffee with a friend occasionally, social interactions are so important for maintaining good mental health. It’s important to find like-minded people where you can connect and feel a sense of a belonging. Engaging in conversation or finding yourself laughing provides an endorphin boost and lowers stress.
Get Outside: No matter the time of year, it’s so crucial to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. This may be going for a walk upon waking up, drinking your coffee on the porch, or taking your reading outside. Spending time in nature provides numerous benefits for your mental health—improving mood, lowering stress, and providing a space for relaxation.
Seeking Support: When you’re struggling with mental health, it’s important to seek support—whether that’s in the form of a friend, therapist, or treatment. By seeking support, you can learn valuable tools to guide you through this journey, and you may discover that you’re not alone. By addressing struggles with your mental health, you can often address issues that may be affecting your relationships, professional endeavors, and physical health problems.
Contact Us Today
If your routine is affecting your mental health and you need additional support, contact us today. We can provide the necessary guidance to get you back to feeling like yourself. Our services may provide the relief you need to overcome conditions such as anxiety and depression. Don’t wait—you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
