We all need good mental health and wellbeing – it's essential to living happy and healthy lives. Here are 7 areas of life where simple changes can make a big difference. Why not start today?

What is good mental health?

Looking after your mental health is not something we should just do if we are struggling, or feeling low, anxious or stressed. It's actually something we should think about all the time and really invest in, just like with our physical health.

Staying on top of our mental wellbeing is good for us now but also helps us deal manage difficult times in the future. Over time, it can also reduce our risk of physical health problems.

There are lots of things we can do to look after our mental health and wellbeing every day – make a start with these 7 top tips.

1. Reframe unhelpful thoughts

The way we think, feel and behave are linked. Sometimes we develop patterns of thoughts or behaviours that are unhelpful so recognising them, and taking steps to think about things differently, can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

2. Be in the present

If we take time to be aware of ourselves and be in the present moment, noticing our own thoughts and feelings, and the world around us, we can gain a better perspective. Sometimes this is known as being more mindful.

3. Get good sleep

Good-quality sleep makes a big difference to how we feel mentally and physically, so it's important to get enough.

4. Connect with others

Spending quality time with friends or family, talking to someone about how we are feeling or finding ways to help other people can all help stop you from feeling lonely and improve your mental health and wellbeing. This can be online, by phone or seeing someone in person.

 5. Live a healthy life

Being active, enjoying the outdoors and having a healthy, balanced diet all impact how we feel. Also, binning bad habits like smoking, and cutting down on alcohol and caffeine can have a positive effect on our mood.

6. Do something for yourself

From enjoying your favourite hobby, learning something new or simply taking time to relax, it's important to do things that make you happy, like trying a new hobby or learning a new skill.

7. Write a letter to future you

When you're feeling good, think about what you would want to tell your future self if things get harder and you find you need more support. Reminding yourself of what's keeping you feeling positive right now can help you through those more difficult times in the future.

Try some of the tips from Your Mind Plan and write down the ones that helped you, include ideas of how to get started and anything else that you have learnt about yourself.

For more Mental Health-related content, check out our Health Articles on this topic.