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These 10 positive habits for better mental health are going to help you get through this year.
Mental health can hold you back from becoming the person you truly want to be. Trust me, I’ve been there. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2015, didn’t take it seriously, and was rediagnosed in 2019. Since then, I’ve faced uphill battles, but at the end of 2024, I can confidently say I’m the most stable I’ve ever been.
In this blog post, I’ll share the habits that helped me improve my mental health and become the best version of myself. These tips can help you find clarity, peace, and confidence while promoting positive changes and supporting your overall health.
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Positive Mental Habits
1. Get Sober
Getting sober changed my life. I quit everything in early 2023 and finally stopped numbing myself, which allowed me to confront my emotions and figure out what was holding me back.
This decision had a significant impact on my emotional well-being, brain function, and energy levels. By removing alcohol consumption and unhealthy coping mechanisms, I created space for healthier habits like regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Start by taking it day by day. Avoid triggers, and distance yourself from people or situations that encourage unhealthy habits. You don’t need to label yourself to recognize the benefits of a clear mind and healthy ways of living.
2. Spend Time Outside
Getting outside doesn’t have to mean going on a big adventure. For me, it’s as simple as sitting on my patio for five minutes or watching the sunset every evening. This small practice of mindfulness has been transformative for my mental well-being and stress levels.
Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body clock and improve brain function. It’s also a powerful tool to reduce the risk of depression. If you’re ready for more, try a daily walk or even some light physical activity. Even just stepping outside can provide mental clarity and a sense of peace.
3. Try Meditation
Meditation isn’t one-size-fits-all. You don’t need to sit cross-legged for hours. My go-to is sleep meditation, which helps me unwind and deal with nighttime anxiety.
Meditation is a great way to reduce stress levels, enhance brain function, and bring a sense of calm to your daily life. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer simple ways to get started, and even a few minutes of meditation can have a positive effect on your mental health.
4. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be a major event. It can be as simple as enjoying your morning coffee without distractions or savoring your meals.
This practice helps you focus on the present moment, reducing anxiety and improving your emotional well-being. It’s also a great way to lower stress levels and build a healthy mind over time.
5. Set Boundaries (Especially with Social Media)
Social media can be a huge mental drain. For a year and a half, I stepped away entirely, which helped me rebuild a healthier relationship with it.
Start with small changes like avoiding doomscrolling before bed or limiting screen time during your day. Social media breaks are a great way to reset your mind and focus on meaningful relationships and social connections that truly matter.
6. Add Something You Love to Your Day
Incorporate small joys into your daily routine—whether it’s treating yourself to a favorite coffee, listening to a good playlist, or trying a new hobby.
Adding positive emotions and activities into your life creates a sense of belonging and boosts emotional health. I created a “happy list” of over 100 things that bring me joy and make sure to include at least one each day. This habit has made my everyday life so much more fulfilling.
7. Build Morning and Night Routines
Having a routine can set the tone for your day and help you wind down at night.
In the morning, I enjoy coffee, a workout, and some sunlight to support a regular sleep schedule and improve my energy levels. At night, I focus on transitioning into sleep with calming activities like reading, practicing gratitude, or using breathing techniques.
8. Take Medications Consistently
If you’re on prescribed medications, take them at the same time every day. Consistency helps medications work more effectively and supports better overall mental health.
To help remember, I pair my meds with daily habits like drinking coffee in the morning or charging my devices at night.
9. Listen to Your Therapist and Doctor
Therapy and medical advice are only effective if you put them into action. My therapist encouraged me to try meditation and get sober, which ended up being life-changing.
By listening to professionals, you can learn healthy coping skills, reduce stress, and make positive changes in your emotional health and mental well-being.
10. Celebrate Small Wins
Don’t wait for big milestones to celebrate yourself. Recognize the small achievements, like getting out of bed on a tough day or ticking off tasks on your to-do list.
Acknowledging good things can help boost positive emotions and give you a sense of accomplishment, even during difficult situations.
Bonus Tips
Journaling: Writing can help you process emotions, practice mindfulness, and improve mental clarity.
Decluttering: A tidy space can promote emotional well-being and reduce stress. Start with small areas like a drawer or shelf.
Low-intensity physical activity: Activities like yoga or stretching improve blood flow, heart rate, and brain function on a regular basis.
Reach out for emotional support: Building social connections and spending time with family members or friends can reduce feelings of isolation and increase a sense of belonging.
These habits have completely transformed my mental health. Start with one or two and gradually build from there. Remember, even small changes can lead to big improvements over time.
Which habit resonates with you the most? Let me know where you are on your mental health journey—I’d love to hear your story!
