Oftentimes, when we think about what could harm our mental health, our minds go to major life events—the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, or the death of a loved one. But small, daily habits that often go unnoticed can also play a major role. Below are three common habits that could be negatively affecting your mental health, and how to change them: 

1. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep impacts your mental health in numerous ways—it can affect your cognitive efficiency, mood, and behavior. Failing to get enough sleep can increase your risk of developing anxiety and depression and make it more difficult for you to focus, solve problems, make decisions, remember things, and control your emotions and impulses. Try sticking to the same sleep schedule, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and performing a relaxing activity before bed (e.g., taking a warm bath or reading). 

*Note: new parents and shift workers, do what you must on whatever sleep you can get!

2. Being Inactive

In today’s busy world, it can be difficult to find time to exercise, but it’s important to stay active. Not only can exercise improve your physical health, but it can also boost your mental health. In fact, studies have shown that regularly exercising could reduce your risk of depression. Exercise does not have to be completed in one long session. Try breaking it up into 10-minute increments, including walking and stretching. 

3. Scrolling Through Social Media

Social media can be beneficial—it can help you stay connected to long-distance family and friends and keep up with current events—but research suggests that spending too much time on it can lead to anxiety and depression. To reduce your screen time, try setting a timer, turning off notifications, or deleting apps from your phone.

Start Improving Your Mental Health

In addition to breaking the negative habits described above, one of the best things you can do to boost your mental health is speak to a therapist. Once we’ve learned more about you and any issues you may be experiencing, we'll work together to provide you with customized advice for how to eliminate negative habits from your life and start implementing more positive ones. Contact me today to schedule your first appointment.