4 Things to Include in Your Mental Health Assessment

Living Well: 4 Things to Include in Your Mental Health Assessment

Everything around us can have an impact on our mental health, but it’s easy to underestimate how even routine things can change our state of mind. Here are four often overlooked things to include in our mental health self-assessment:

A Good Night’s Sleep

Not getting enough quality sleep can have a significant impact on our moods, productivity, relationships, and even our physical health. If getting consistently high-quality sleep is a challenge, make sure you consult a physician for help.
A Healthy Diet

What we put into our bodies can alter our mental health – and not just in obvious ways, such as the effect that caffeine or sugar can have on our energy levels. Healthy eating can be a sign of good personal discipline and self-care, so preparing healthy meals in advance can help develop a positive diet routine.
Regular Exercise

It’s well known that exercise releases endorphins, which can trigger a positive feeling in us. But exercise can also be about movement, a change of scenery, spending time with others, and creating a sense of accomplishment. All of these factors can improve our mental health by changing our perspective about ourselves and our surroundings.
Limit Screen Time & Social Media

Our phones have become such an integral part of our lives that we can underestimate their impact. Social media sites can be sources of friendship and encouragement – but they can also introduce negativity and unhealthy feelings into our lives. Make sure that when you’re online, you’re alert to content or conversations that are not positively impacting your mental health.