Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important in relation to emotional wellbeing and preventing mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Stress management, social engagement, physical exercise, good sleep hygiene and a healthy work life balance are all integral in maintaining emotional health and preventing prolonged experiences of distress.
- Stress management
Regularly implementing relaxation strategies are helpful in managing stress. Relaxations strategies including techniques such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, visualisation exercises, meditation and yoga can assist in maintain positive mental health. Some form of relaxation should be undertaken on a daily basis. There are many resources available online that often take just a few minutes to implement. Psychologists can also guide you through personalised relaxation techniques.
- Social engagement
Maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends, helps in reducing feelings of isolation in difficult times. Family and/ or friends can be helpful in sharing problems and providing different perspectives on difficult issues you may be facing.
- Physical Exercise
Engaging in physical exercise helps reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This is because exercise uses up adrenalin that is often released into our bodies when we are distressed or anxious, rendering us feeling more agitated. Just 30 minutes of light exercise (such as walking) on 5 -6 days a week will go a long way to improving your physical fitness and combating the impacts of stress.
- Good sleep hygiene
It is important that you allow your body and mind enough rest each night. Sleep is vital for overall health and well being, supporting physical recovery, brain function and mental health. Insufficient sleep can lead to various health problems and can also negatively impact cognitive functioning, mood and daily performance. Aim to get around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Limit caffeine intake and other stimulants during the day, especially in the hours prior to bedtime. Ensure you have a good bedtime routine, limiting overly stimulating activities and engaging in relaxing pursuits.
- Maintaining a healthy work-life balance
Minimising prolonged periods of overworking at the expense of rest and recreation, is integral to achieving a good work-life balance and preventing mental health issues. It is important that time is reserved for rest and relaxation as well as connecting socially with family and friends. Ensure you engage in activities and hobbies that you enjoy and that give you a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. Social, recreational, restful and enjoyable activities planned during the week maintain motivation, energy and drive and promote a sense of life satisfaction.