Caring for your mental health doesn’t have to involve a complete lifestyle overhaul. Sometimes, small, intentional actions can make a big difference. Here are six things you can do today to start feeling better:
1. Take a Deep Breath
Stress and anxiety can often leave us feeling out of control, but a simple deep-breathing exercise can help calm your mind. Inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for four counts. Repeat this a few times to reset your focus and reduce tension.
Reference: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) emphasizes the benefits of deep-breathing exercises for stress reduction.
2. Move Your Body
Physical activity is one of the best ways to boost your mental health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a quick yoga session, or even dancing around your living room, moving your body releases endorphins that can improve your mood and energy levels. If you live in Wilmington, NC going for a walk at a local beach can boost your mental health in a variety of ways!
Reference: The Mayo Clinic highlights how regular exercise can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
3. Connect with Someone You Trust
Reaching out to a friend, family member, or loved one can be incredibly grounding. Share how you’re feeling, or simply enjoy their company. Building and maintaining strong social connections is key to mental well-being.
Reference: The American Psychological Association (APA) stresses the importance of strong social connections in promoting resilience and mental health.
4. Practice Gratitude
Take a moment to write down three things you’re grateful for today. Focusing on the positives—even small ones—can shift your perspective and help you cultivate a more optimistic mindset.
Reference: Research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology shows that practicing gratitude can improve overall mental health and well-being.
5. Unplug from Screens
Spending too much time scrolling through social media or glued to your devices can increase stress and negatively impact your mood. Try stepping away from your screens for an hour or two and use that time for something restorative, like reading or being in nature.
Reference: Studies from the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology link excessive screen time, particularly on social media, to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
6. Reach Out for Professional Help
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Professional support can provide the tools and guidance you need to feel better. At PsychWellNow, we’re here to help with compassionate, personalized care tailored to your needs.
Reference: According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), seeking professional help can effectively manage mental health conditions and improve quality of life.
Improving your mental health starts with small, intentional actions. Start where you are, and know that support is always available when you need it.
At PsychWellNow, we believe that mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Founded by a leading psychiatrist in Wilmington, NC, we specialize in offering a wide range of services, including medication management, at-home sleep studies, innovative treatments like Spravato for treatment-resistant depression, and holistic care that integrates physical and mental well-being.
Our mission is to provide comprehensive support to help individuals overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. Whether you're seeking therapy, personalized medication plans, or guidance in creating healthier habits, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. At PsychWellNow, we’re not just focused on treatment—we’re dedicated to empowering you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life!
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