Nine Ways to Support and Strenghten your Mental Health

Siobhan O'Shea
May 5
2 min read

This May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Four-panel comic: People show off cast, stitches, flu update on social media, silent response to mental health struggles. Text contrasts reactions. — How we treat physical health issues versus mental health issues

We hear a lot about physical health—eating right, exercising, going to the doctor—but what about mental health?

After all, mental health is more than just a small part of our lives.

It’s connected to every little thing we do, every place we go and every person around us. Mental health is our physical health, our finances, and our relationships. It’s part of our defining moments and the day-to-day.

The theme of Mental Health Awareness Month this year is: Turn Awareness Into Action. What better time to take some meaningful steps to create positive change in your own life?

Here are nine specific ways to build and support your mental health during this Mental Health Awareness Month—and every month to come:

Try a positive scavenger Hunt

Reflect on the last 24 hours, looking for the good things that have happened, especially the small things we often overlook. Little moments like a warm conversation, a few moments of sunshine, or completing a small task can be very impactful. This practice helps train our brains not to overlook these positive moments in the future.

Move your body

Our body is designed for activity, but when we feel down, it's easy to feel stuck. But movement, even in small amounts, signals to your brain that you're engaged with life. It doesn't have to be anything too intense, just get moving.

Practice relaxation techniques

Deep breathing isn't just for moments of stress. Try practising deep breathing even when you're calm. Think of it as a way to prepare emotionally for the day ahead.

Connect with people

Try to connect with people who uplift and understand you. This can be challenging, so start with shared interests, which may lead you to a supportive and inclusive circle over time.

Be kind to yourself

Maybe above all else, treat yourself with the compassion and understanding that you would show a dear friend, especially when you are going through a challenging time.

Have things to look forward to

Schedule something a week out, a month out, and six months out. Having events on the horizon can give you something to hold onto, even on the toughest days.

Go outside

Research has found that just looking at complex patterns found in ferns, flowers, mountains, ocean waves, and other elements of nature can induce more of the alpha waves in your brain that are associated with relaxation.

Declutter your space

Getting organised won’t help with diagnosed depression. But learning to declutter and get organised can make a difference for your mental health by reducing stress, boosting focus, and promoting a sense of calm and control.

Seek support

Committing yourself to care for your mental health might mean reaching out to friends, family, or mental health professionals when you need support. If you have a painful toothache, you don't try to "tough it out," so why would you do that with your psychological health?

For more information on BetterCare's mental health services or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 01-5563335, WhatsApp at 089-2300366, or book through one of the links below.