Having good mental health is not a given. Your mental health is important and can affect your quality of life in so many ways. We live in a fast-paced world where it is always us against time. Stressors in our day-to-day lives can override any cue to relax, be present and breathe.

While stress can ensure we are alert, responsive, and perform well, sometimes we lack the ability to manage it. “Too much of anything is bad” so the saying goes, and that holds true for anything that negatively affects our mental wellbeing.

What is mental health?

According to the World Health Organization, mental health is “a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their communities.”

Here are some tips to help you on your journey:

Seek the professional help you need

Going to a professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist is beneficial for addressing factors that may be negatively contributing to your mental wellbeing. These professionals can provide you with ways to cope with the stressors which affect you.

Establish a routine and good habits

Having an outline for a good routine and good habits matters. They provide a guideline to manage your day. You can start by journaling, moving your body through exercise, and eating a balanced diet. Remember, realistic goal setting and writing down your “to-do” list for each day, can help you complete tasks and reduce your stress levels.

Identify factors and behaviours that you have control over

We often stress ourselves over things we have no control over. Choose to place your attention on the things and behaviours that you can control in your environment and circumstances. This will positively effect your mental wellbeing because you will be focusing your time, energy, and resources on what you can directly change.