Mental health and stress are, more often than not, tied very tightly together. When you’re in the throes of an incredibly trying and hectic time, there’s a very good chance that your mental health will likely come under threat. Fortunately, you can make small changes and additions in your day-to-day life that will equip you with the tools to manage stressful situations and keep you mentally healthy and on track.

Physical Self-Care

Looking after your body the right way can directly impact your mental health. It can also help you manage stress and handle unexpected curveballs better. There are a few things you can do to ensure that you’re taking good care of your body daily:

1. Movement

Not everyone’s body was made like Usain Bolt or Chad Le Clos: in other words, bred and trained for radical physical activity. That said, all human bodies were made to move, and if you find the right kind of movement (exercise), it doesn’t have to be unpleasant. Movement every day is essential for your body and mind: exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, which help keep you happy and mentally well-balanced. 

We’re not necessarily talking about a daily HIIT routine, so don’t panic. Something as simple as a half-hour walk, a beginner’s yoga flow, a dance or zumba workout, or a short jog can provide sufficient exercise and a good time. If you exercise outside, you get bonus points because fresh air and sunshine are excellent for mind and body. Exercise is also a way to take your mind off stress and work out any frustration or tension you’ve built up through movement — what’s not to like?

The habit: Add a 30-minute appointment to your daily calendar for whatever kind of movement makes you feel the best. 

2. Skincare

Looking your best and having your skin as healthy and clear as possible isn’t just a beauty priority — it’s a self-care thing, too. Regarding skincare, we mean the entire body, not just your face! Whether it’s an at-home face and body care routine that you maintain daily or a monthly visit to an impeccable Las Vegas spa, you must ensure you’re providing your skin with what it needs to thrive. 

Unbalanced skin is more reactive and far more likely to break out or flare up when stressful situations strike, but balanced skin can take it in stride. There is also a lot to be said for the mental boost of caring for yourself: taking a bubble bath or getting a seaweed wrap, lighting a candle, and doing your skincare routine in the evening, remembering the cuticle oil after you’ve washed your hands. It’s all part of looking and feeling your best.

The habit: Make time for your skin and body care every day, whether you like going through the routine or not.

3. Checkups

Visits to the doctor (GP and whichever varieties you need) are non-negotiable. Keeping an eye on your overall health takes the stress of the unknown or a condition worsening out of the equation. Regular checkups and medical maintenance when necessary are essential; it’s as simple as that. 

The habit: When you leave a checkup, schedule the next one and add it to your phone’s calendar or reminders so you don’t forget the next one.

4. Eat and Drink Well

Diet culture is an antiquated idea that serves no one. What is essential is ensuring that your body gets everything it needs to function well, which means you feel healthy and mentally well. No one is saying you can’t have delicious pasta, a slice of cake, or snacks when you watch a movie with your friends. What’s important is getting what our body needs before what it wants. Hydrate, eat your fruits and veggies and get your protein every day.

The habit: Make meal plans so you know what you’re having ahead of time and can ensure all the necessary food items are on your plate. This will also eliminate or at least minimize food waste, which minimizes financial waste and takes some stress off your plate.

Mental Self-Care

Physical and mental wellness are closely connected, but there are some standalone mental health stress relievers that you can and should implement, too.

1. Minimize Screen Time

This can be related to a particular issue (practical, social, or emotional) causing stress in your life or as a general rule. In the first case, it’s a good idea to stay away from anything on your phone or computer that could exacerbate it. Limit the number of posts related to the issue you see on your social media apps (hidden words can help), and stay away from apps or creators sharing much of that content. 

The habit: Limit your scrolling time and implement a “no screen time” rule from an hour before you go to sleep. Your brain will gear down properly, and you’ll sleep better, making it easier to get through tough times or tough mental health days.

2. Connect

If you’re up for it, spend time with those you love and maybe even meet new people. Cuddle your cat or dog, go for coffee with your friends, lie on the couch on Sunday with your partner, and just be. Human connection is essential for most people to be completely well and whole.

The habit: Check in with your loved ones regularly via phone or text and plan to physically be together and enjoy each other’s company, no matter how busy you are.

3. Take Your Meds

You must take any chronic medication as directed by your medical health professionals. Whether the medication is for your mental health or physical health, you can only be at your best if it’s being taken correctly and consistently.

The habit: portion out your meds week by week in daily pill containers for ease of access, but you don’t overmedicate or skip days by mistake.

Go Forth and Be Well

These additions and habits will set you on a path to mental wellness and being able to minimize and cope with stress well when it’s unavoidable.