Ever wonder how some people manage to stay grounded and resilient, even through life’s toughest moments?
The key lies in how they take care of their mental health.
These folks don’t necessarily have fewer challenges—they’ve just developed routines and mindsets that help them stay strong and centered.
Today, we’re diving into seven habits that people who never neglect their mental health live by, backed by insights from psychology.
Whether you’re looking to build a stronger foundation for your mental well-being or simply curious about what these habits look like, these tips offer valuable guidance for a happier, healthier life.
Let’s explore them together.
1) They prioritize self-care
Let’s start with the basics. People who never neglect their mental health make self-care a priority.
Does that mean they spend hours indulging in luxurious spa treatments or long vacations? Not necessarily.
Self-care is about taking time out for yourself, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. It could be as simple as reading a book, going for a walk, or even just enjoying a cup of tea in silence.
These individuals understand that to take care of others and fulfill their responsibilities effectively, they first need to take care of themselves.
This is well backed up by experts in psychology like those at Choosing Therapy who have noted that regular self-care is linked to lower stress levels, happier relationships, and a reduced likelihood of depression and anxiety.
It’s a simple habit but one that has profound effects on your mental health.
2) They cultivate mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment. It’s about acknowledging your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. Experts say that this simple practice can help to reduce stress, improve focus, and even give a boost to our working memory!
I’ve seen the power of this habit in my own life. When I started my journey as the founder of Hack Spirit, the concept of mindfulness seemed a bit elusive. But as I delved deeper and started practicing, I realized its transformative power.
I remember a time when I was overwhelmed with multiple projects and deadlines. Instead of letting anxiety take over, I took a few moments to practice mindfulness. I closed my eyes, focused on my breath, and acknowledged my feelings of stress without trying to push them away.
This simple practice helped me regain my composure, and I was able to tackle my tasks with a clearer mind.
3) They maintain a positive mindset
Another habit that people who prioritize their mental health have is maintaining a positive mindset.
Now, this doesn’t mean they are always happy or that they ignore their problems. Instead, they choose to focus on solutions rather than letting problems consume them.
They understand that life will throw curveballs at them, and instead of getting bogged down by the negatives, they choose to see these as opportunities for growth.
In my book Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into this concept. I discuss how adopting a Buddhist approach to life can help shift your perspective from seeing problems as roadblocks to viewing them as stepping stones toward personal growth.
For now, just know that this mentality is a powerful tool for maintaining mental health.
4) They practice gratitude
Did you know that research in the field of positive psychology has consistently found that gratitude is associated with greater happiness?
It helps people feel more positive emotions, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.
By regularly taking time to acknowledge the good in their lives, these individuals are able to shift their focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, helping them maintain an optimistic outlook.
They might keep a gratitude journal, writing down three things they’re thankful for each day. Or perhaps they make it a habit to verbally express their gratitude to the people around them.
The key is consistency. Like any other skill or habit, the more you practice gratitude, the more natural it becomes.
5) They allow themselves to feel negative emotions
Now, this might seem counter-intuitive, but people who consistently maintain good mental health allow themselves to feel negative emotions.
Yes, you read that right.
Trying to suppress or ignore our negative emotions can actually lead to more stress and anxiety in the long run.
People with good mental health understand this. They permit themselves to feel their feelings, be it sadness, anger, or anxiety, acknowledging these emotions as a natural part of life.
Instead of trying to push these feelings away, they sit with them, understand them, and then let them go. It’s a healthier way to deal with negative emotions that prevents them from spiraling out of control.
6) They value their relationships
Who are the people in your life that make you feel supported, understood, and truly connected?
People who maintain strong mental health understand the importance of investing in their closest relationships. They know that a few deep, meaningful connections are far more valuable than dozens of shallow ones.
This isn’t just a feel-good belief; it’s backed by research. The renowned Harvard Study of Adult Development, which followed participants for over 80 years, found that close relationships are one of the most significant predictors of happiness, health, and longevity.
These individuals make time for the people who matter most, whether that’s family, close friends, or mentors. They listen, show up, and nurture these connections, knowing that a strong support system is essential to mental well-being.
7) They seek professional help when needed
Lastly, people who never neglect their mental health are not afraid to seek professional help when they need it.
They understand that there’s no shame in reaching out to a mental health professional, be it a psychologist, psychiatrist, or a counselor. They recognize that sometimes, the challenges we face can be too overwhelming to handle alone.
These individuals see therapy not as a sign of weakness, but as a tool for better understanding themselves and navigating life’s ups and downs.
Final thoughts
And there you have it—seven powerful habits of people who prioritize their mental health. While life’s challenges are inevitable, these habits can help you stay grounded, resilient, and fulfilled.
Incorporate even a few of these practices into your daily life, and you’ll be taking meaningful steps toward a healthier mind and a happier you.
Here’s to a stronger, more balanced life!
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