As the pandemic rages on, it can be said that mental health has certainly become a hot topic of discussion. More and more people are coming to terms with their own emotional and psychological well-being. In these tumultuous times, it is especially important to prioritise yourself and take self-care seriously. No matter how challenging the process, remember that things will always work out, slowly but surely.

Here are some tips that may come in handy as you work towards bettering your mental health and wellness.

Use wellness apps

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Given the ease and accessibility of wellness apps, working towards your mental health goals has never been easier. Embarking on your fitness journey? Aiming for three balanced and nutritious meals a day? Looking to attain more clarity in your daily life? You want it, you’ve got it.

Meditation, sleep, music, motivation, and so on — the list is endless. Wellness apps may not provide a one-off solution to your problems, but they can help to tide you over.

Keep a gratitude journal

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Research has shown that the practice of gratitude is beneficial to one’s mental health and wellbeing. One way to keep track is through a gratitude journal.

Other than being a personal platform for self-expression, gratitude journaling provides a judgment-free space for clarity and contemplation. It helps you to focus on what truly matters; have you been putting excessive time and energy into something that generates more negative than positive emotions?

Try taking five to 10 minutes out of your day to reflect on what you are grateful for and write it down. Perhaps you had a particularly delicious breakfast that morning, or you were the recipient of a random act of kindness. Who knows, gratitude journaling might just become a habit you look forward to.

Declutter your space

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A messy and cluttered environment can take a toll on one’s mental health. Look at your surroundings —is it time to declutter?

Even though you may lack the willpower to get rid of things you’ve accumulated over the years, you don’t have to revamp or even clean up your entire room in one sitting. Taking small steps to declutter is enough to boost your spirits and give you a sense of accomplishment.

Making active decisions regarding what stays and what goes is a good way to determine what really matters to you. Decluttering can also serve as an opportunity to release emotional baggage as you leave the past behind and focus on the present. Besides, it certainly is a good habit to cultivate in the long run.

Embrace a change in environment

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It is a fact that we are shaped by our environment, which includes our lifestyle, location, habits, and the people we spend most of our time with.

Here’s something worth considering: is your environment helping you grow or is it holding you back? Do the people and places you’ve aligned yourself with leave a positive impact on your life? If not, it’s time to leave them behind and move forward.

Focus on changing your physical and social surroundings for the better. For example, distancing yourself from toxicity to nurture relationships grounded in support and empathy will make a noticeable difference. If you allow yourself a change in environment, it can do wonders for your mental health.

Seek professional help

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At the end of the day, consulting a doctor or medical professional may just be the best form of self-care. It is never too late to seek help for your mental health; it marks the beginning of your recovery and self-growth.

The National Council of Social Service has compiled a comprehensive list of resources for mental health services. They are also behind Beyond The Label, a Facebook messenger help bot that connects individuals to specific resources and helplines for mental health-related advice.

Even if all you need is a listening ear or a bit of emotional support, there is a wealth of mental health resources out there. All you have to do is take the first step.

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