Maintaining our mental health and wellbeing has been challenging in 2020, so taking the time to consider it is more important than ever.
It’s Queensland Mental Health Week from 10 – 18 October and this year’s theme is take time for mental health.
Let’s make our mental health a priority, here are six things we can do now to improve our mental health and wellbeing.
Eat right
How’s my nutrition? Eating well plays an important role in our mental health, be sure to get enough nutrients and minerals by eating a range of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and sources of dairy.
Don’t know where to start? The University of Newcastle’s Healthy Eating Quiz may help, it’s a 10-minute quiz designed to help rate our eating habits and identify areas where you can improve.
Keep up the exercise
Am I exercising enough? This is an important one and sometimes it’s often the first thing to be overlooked when we are busy and overworked.
For adults aged between 18 and 64, the World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.
If you are looking for ways to get your fitness on track, get moving with these easy workouts.
Get enough sleep
Am I getting enough sleep? Our sleep patterns can impact how we feel and function throughout the day.
Sleep needs vary from person to person; however The Sleep Health Foundation recommends between seven and nine hours for an adult.
Get a better night’s sleep with these healthy sleep habits.
Be mindful
Can I make more time for mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of being in the moment and directing your mind and attention to the activity.
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve concentration, memory, focus and much more.
See what the fuss is about with this free mindfulness app Smiling Mind.
Created by psychologists and educators, this app has daily meditation and mindfulness exercises and only takes 10 minutes a day.
Connect and socialise
When is the last time I caught up with friends? If it’s been a while, schedule in some time with friends.
Having someone to talk to is a great support and an instant mood booster.
Accept help
Can I ask and accept help? We can’t do everything all the time, it’s important that we ask for help when we need it.
For some of us that can be a hard thing to do but reaching out to friends and family for support when we need is important.
