If it wasn’t well-known before the coronavirus pandemic, it certainly is now: mental health is important. Life can be difficult, there’s no doubt about it, and while there are occasions when all we can do is try to continue walking forward, there are others when we need to take a breather and get ourselves back to a good place.

​The good news is that, since mental health issues are more prevalent (or at least more understood) than ever, we have a pretty good idea of what we can do to get ourselves into that good place. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the staples of positive mental health. There are no guarantees in life, but if you do all these things, then you’d be giving yourself a good chance of being in a happy place.

Please note: This collaborative article does not contain healthcare or therapeutic advice. If you are concerned about your health or well-being, speak with a health professional or visit your nearest medical facility in an emergency. The links in this article may be affiliate links that I will be compensated for at no additional cost to  you. ​

Healthy Eating

You really are what you eat. If you’re eating healthy meals, then you’ll be giving your body what it needs to feel at its best -- and it’ll thank you for it! On the other hand, processed foods should be avoided; studies have linked them to lethargy, which can be a starting point for depression. It’s easier and cheaper to make healthy meals than you might think. 

Plenty of Exercise 

You might feel like sitting on the couch and watching Netflix, but there’s a lot of value in putting on some running shoes and going for a jog. It can do wonders for your mental health! When you work up a sweat, your body releases endorphins, which is basically the chemical that makes you happy (one of them, anyway). You don’t need to be spending hours in the gym each week to get the effect. Even twenty minutes of exercise can have a positive impact. 

Talking it Out

It’s normal to want to bottle things up, at least sometimes, but studies have shown that it’s much better to talk things out. If you have friends and family who are willing to listen to you, then share what’s on your mind -- simply the act of letting it out can have a positive impact, but you may also get some useful advice that helps you even more. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing your thoughts with those around you, then look at getting professional help; there’s counselling for everyone, no matter your age, background, and so forth. This is something that really can make a massive difference to your mental well-being! 

Into Nature

And finally, be sure to spend some time in nature. Nature lovers have long understood the value of the outdoors, but now, science is beginning to catch up. Recent studies have shown that spending two hours in the great outdoors each week can have a big impact on your mental health by reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety. No matter where you live, you’ll have a natural space close to your home, so be sure to make an effort to get out there and soak up all the goodness! 

Related: ​5 Habits for a Strong & Healthy Body

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