Life can be stressful, and worry, fear, and low mood are common. These feelings are understandable, but you can take steps to look after your mental health. These negative emotions are understandable; however, you have the power to control your outlook in life despite whatever situation you’re going through. That’s why taking care of your mental health is essential during this tough time. Don’t worry, here are six ways to look after your mental health.
Share your thoughts with someone you trust
Whether that’s a friend, a family member, a colleague, or anybody that you feel comfortable with, talking to them can help to improve your mental wellbeing. Talking about your feelings allows you to deal with the burdens building up in your mind. Though it may be easier said than done, try to open up to someone you trust and tell them your worries.
Once you’re able to share what you’re going through with someone who cares, you will receive support from them, which greatly improves your mental well-being. If you’re living far away from your loved ones, a simple phone call or video call can keep you connected to them.
Take care of your physical health
Physical and mental health are closely linked to each other. You’ll be surprised at how taking care of one can help maintain the other. For example, regular exercise keeps the brain and your organs healthy, which can significantly improve your mental wellbeing. Doing a sport or having workout sessions are good examples of physical activities that you can do. However, if you’re a beginner or don’t exercise that often, a simple walk to the park, doing yoga, or even dancing is considered good activity to keep your body active.
Adults should aim for about 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as brisk walking, which works out to about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Regular activity can lift your mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
Engage in your favorite activities
Remember the things that you used to enjoy doing? Now it’s the perfect time to get back and make the most out of those hobbies. Whether trying out a new recipe, playing with your pet, reading a sci-fi book, or watching a horror movie, stick to that hobby and spend time doing it. It’s a good idea to have a routine and do it daily, as it will keep you excited and happy doing the things you love.
Clean your home
The environment that you stay in will not only affect your physical health but also, your mental health. A messy room full of clutter can make you feel bored, lazy, and demotivated, which is extremely harmful to your mental wellbeing. Take some time off your busy day and clean your home, start decluttering and organizing your stuff. This might also be a therapeutic activity that will help to declutter your mind, uplift your mood as well as enhance your productivity.
Relax your mind
Allow your mind to break from constant thoughts by doing meditation and mindfulness practices. These activities act as a relaxation exercise that calms your mind down, allowing you to improve your mental state.
Meditation and mindfulness practices can help some people manage stress and feel calmer. They are not a treatment on their own — if anxiety or depression affects your daily life, talk to your doctor. Prepare to light some candles, play relaxing tunes from your phone, and take a few slow breaths.
Pay attention to what you eat
You may not notice, but your relationship to food affects your physical health and your mental well-being. Thus, having a balanced and healthy diet will improve both your body and mind. Remember to make the most of your meal vegetables and fruits with a balanced portion of proteins and carbs. The importance of having a healthy diet is to provide your body with various sources of nutrition.
Having a healthy diet is also reflected in your attitude towards food. While enjoying a meal and trying out new foods, make sure not to obsess over what you’re eating. This would allow you to control your mental relationship to food, thus improving your mental health.
Conclusion
Mental health can be challenging for you to talk about. However, the more we talk about and normalize it, the easier it is to seek help. I hope these steps can help you maintain and improve your mental wellbeing.
When to Seek Professional Help
Self-care helps, but it is not enough for everyone on its own. The NHS advises people to see a GP if low mood or anxiety lasts more than two weeks, if it affects work, sleep, or relationships, or if you feel you cannot cope. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and medicines can help with depression and anxiety. In the UK, NHS talking therapies are free and you can refer yourself. In the US, your doctor can refer you to a therapist, or you can call the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
If you feel you might act on thoughts of harming yourself, get help right away. In the US, call or text 988. In the UK, call Samaritans on 116 123. If you are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number.
More Steps That Support Mental Health
| Step | What to Do | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep well | Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night | CDC |
| Limit alcohol | Alcohol can worsen anxiety and depression | NHS |
| Stay connected | Regular contact with friends and family protects mental health | WHO |
| Move daily | Even a short walk can lift your mood | NHS |
| Limit news and social media | Take breaks from constant news and screens | WHO |
The WHO notes that social connection protects mental health, and that loneliness is linked to depression, anxiety and poor physical health. A short call to a friend can help more than you expect.
Building a Daily Routine
A simple routine can help when life feels hard. Set regular times for waking up, eating, moving, and going to bed. Plan one enjoyable activity each day, even a small one, such as a walk, a book, or a favourite meal. Write down three small things you are grateful for at the end of the day. These small habits do not cure mental illness, but they can make hard days easier to manage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are simple ways to look after my mental health?
Share your thoughts with someone you trust, take care of your physical health, do activities you enjoy, keep your home tidy, relax your mind, and pay attention to what you eat.
When should I see a doctor about my mental health?
The NHS advises seeing a GP if low mood or anxiety lasts more than two weeks, affects work, sleep, or relationships, or if you feel you cannot cope.
Can exercise help my mental health?
Yes. The NHS notes that regular exercise, even a simple walk, can improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
Does alcohol affect mental health?
Yes. The NHS notes that alcohol can worsen anxiety and depression, even though it may feel relaxing at first.
Where can I get help in a crisis?
In the US, call or text 988. In the UK, call Samaritans on 116 123. If you are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information only. It is not a substitute for medical care. Talk to your own doctor or a qualified mental health professional about your own health. This guide gives no medical advice for readers.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026