Shelby Cook, LISW-S
Meta Title: 8 Worst Practices for Mental Health
Meta Description: Some of our daily habits unknowingly affect our mental health. Read on to discover some of the worst practices for mental health.
Keywords: Mental health
8 Worst Practices for Mental Health
Image Text: Your Mental Health Matters
Alt Text: Not sleeping enough can impact your Mental Health
Image Description: Stressed person sitting up in bed
Most people know that mental health is important but might not know what constitutes good or bad mental health practices. There are a lot of misconceptions about mental health. Here are some of the worst practices for mental health.
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for good mental health. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and children need even more. Unfortunately, many people do not get enough sleep. According to Harvard Health Publishing, sleep deprivation can significantly impact mental health and psychological states (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022). A lack of sleep can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also make it difficult to concentrate and make good decisions. If you’re not getting enough sleep, try to establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Skipping Meals
When you’re busy, skipping meals or grabbing something unhealthy on the go is easy. However, skipping meals can have a negative impact on your mental health. Not eating enough can lead to low energy levels and irritability. It can also make it difficult to concentrate and make good decisions. If you’re skipping meals, try to make time for healthy, balanced meals.
Overspending
Many people deal with stress by spending money, but overspending can lead to more stress in the long run. If you’re constantly worrying about money, it can take a toll on your mental health. Try to be mindful of your spending and create a budget that works for you.
Isolating Yourself
It’s important to have close relationships and a support system, but isolating yourself can worsen mental health problems. If you’re feeling down, reach out to friends or family members. There are also many support groups available for people with mental health conditions.
Self-medicating
Many people try to self-medicate their mental health problems with alcohol or drugs. However, this can make mental health problems worse. Talk to a doctor or therapist if you’re struggling with a mental health condition. They can help you find the treatment that you need.
Not Exercising
Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your mental health. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also improve sleep and increase energy levels. If you’re not exercising, try to find an activity you enjoy and make time for it in your schedule.
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms
There are healthy and unhealthy ways to cope with stress. Some harmful coping mechanisms include self-harm, binge eating, or using drugs or alcohol. Talk to a doctor or therapist if you’re using unhealthy coping mechanisms. They can help you find healthier ways to deal with stress.
Not Asking for Help
Many people feel they have to deal with their mental health problems alone, but this isn’t true. There are many resources available to help people with mental health conditions. If you’re struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, therapist, or doctor. They can help you get the support that you need.
Final Thoughts
Mental health is important for everyone. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about mental health. The worst practices for mental health discussed above can worsen mental health problems. If you’re struggling with mental health, contact a doctor or therapist. They can help you find the treatment that you need.
Image Text: Pay attention to your mental health
Alt Text: A balanced diet is essential for your mental health
Image Description: Vegetable salad on a plate beside a fork
References
Harvard Health Publishing. (2022). Sleep and mental health. Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/sleep-and-mental-health
