How To Boost Your Mental Health and Wellbeing in Uncertain Times

We are living in uncertain times with people of all ages experiencing stress, worry and anxiety.

Here are some simple ways to give your mental health a welcome boost.

Go for a walk

According to Australia’s MindShift Foundation, walking for just 30 minutes a day can improve your mental health. We might not be able to go far (for the moment at least) but we can still go. Walking is free and you can do it anytime, anywhere. So whether your thing is a gentle stroll along Mona Vale beach or a power walk around the block, free up some time every day to step into better health.

Listen to your favourite tunes

Elton John once said “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” Now Elton may not be your jam, but there’s plenty more great music out there and so many ways to listen. One of our favourite apps is Spotify, where you can listen to heaps of songs and podcasts for free.

Read a book or two

There’s nothing like losing yourself in a good book, so if there’s a novel you’ve always wanted to read, now’s the time to start. Bookshelves bare? Then why not check out your local library network. While many libraries are now closed for inperson visits, you may be able to borrow books (and more). Northern Beaches libraries currently offer Library2U a contactless delivery service for library patrons. Or you may want to check out your local bookshop online.

Zoom with family and friends

It can be tough spending time away from those we love to be with. While virtual catch-ups don’t compare with the real thing, they’re a great way to stay in touch. And with apps like Zoom offering a Basic Plan for free, you won’t break the bank by using them either.

Diffuse the stress

Aromatherapy has long been known for its use of scents to relieve stress and promote restful sleep. Various essential oils, such as lavender, lemon and bergamot can be used with a diffuser, and may help to create a sense of calm and wellbeing.

Cook something good

Eating a healthy diet has been proven to help reduce mood swings, anxiety and depression, but indulging in comfort foods and/or sweet treats might be what you need right now, too. So you have every reason to prepare your favourite dish or snack and then tuck in. You can find recipes for pretty much anything you want online. We often end up here.

Colour in

Adult colouring books have been big business for a while. One reason they are so popular is the link between colouring and reduced anxiety/increased mindfulness. If you don’t have a colouring book at home already, just search online for free colouring pages.

Binge on a Netflix series

You know you want to! And to make your life a little easier, this post on Urban List claims to list 25 of the best shows on Netflix Australia right now. Popcorn, anyone?

We hope you enjoy our series of suggestions and encourage you to give them a go. Sometimes a little something for you can make a big difference to your world (and the way you see it).

Do you have any tips for boosting mental health? We’d love you to share them with us.

If you are feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed, these services can provide you with immediate assistance 24/7:

Beyond Blue: 1800 51 23 48

Lifeline: 13 11 14

 

For medical emergencies, ring Triple Zero (000).