Dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to self-care activities, choosing from physical activity, relaxation, or creativity (e.g., listening to music, journaling, walking, mindfulness apps), to top up your mental fitness and empty your stress bucket.
Discover and implement coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety that suit your unique energy and personality, such as channeling nervous energy into physical activity like walking or punching a bag, rather than adhering to generic advice.
Dedicate a specific, protected amount of time daily for self-care activities to restore your chemical balance, which is essential for maintaining mental fitness.
When someone opens up about their mental health struggles, respond with compassion, non-judgment, and helpfulness, as your initial reaction is fundamental to their recovery pathway.
Encourage children to participate in debating to build confidence, improve quick thinking, and develop the skill of responding thoughtfully to arguments rather than reacting emotionally, fostering resilience and empathy.
Support the ‘Where’s Your Head At?’ campaign by signing the petition at wheresyourheadat.org and writing to your local MP to advocate for mandatory mental health first aid in workplaces.
Be mindful of your intentions and frequency when engaging in activities like social media or drinking; using them to medicate stress or fill a void can have a different, potentially negative, impact than using them for enjoyment or genuine connection.
Cultivate strong self-esteem by believing in your own worth, as this internal validation makes external opinions less impactful and helps you assess yourself as a ‘good box’.
Exercise outdoors in nature, as evidence suggests it magnifies endorphin production, contributing to better mood and overall well-being.
Follow simple, traditional health advice: eat fruits and vegetables, drink enough water, move regularly, and avoid excessive guilt over occasional treats like cake, to allow your body to be naturally healthy.
Train as a mental health first aider to provide crucial first intervention for colleagues struggling with mental health, learning what to say and recommend for support, similar to physical first aid.
If diagnosed with a mental health condition, make necessary life alterations to live with it, viewing it as a part of who you are but not defining you, similar to managing a physical condition like diabetes.
Engage in activities like exercise for intrinsic enjoyment and personal benefit, rather than solely for external validation or the pursuit of perfection, as this provides personal value.
Reflect on your social media usage; if you frequently photoshop or filter selfies, it may indicate an unhealthy relationship with the platform and a reliance on external validation.
Consider taking Athletic Greens daily as a nutritional insurance policy, especially if getting all nutrition from food isn’t always possible, as it’s a nutrient-dense whole food supplement.
Learn about and support the Mental Health Media Charter on natashadevan.com if you speak or write publicly about mental health, to ensure responsible and safe communication.