Mental well-being is a common buzzword in the health community. It is regarded by many experts to be as vital as physical health. Finding ways to maintain healthy well-being can help people live happier and longer lives. In the midst of public health crises and pandemics, it is more important than ever to maintain a healthy well-being.
According to one study, Indians residing in European countries like Ireland have experienced a considerable decline in well-being and mental health. In the study, conducted by Mental Daily, more than 200 respondents were surveyed and the vast majority reported stress, anxiety, fatigue, mood problems, and sleep disturbances as a result of public health crises.
Dr. Pradeep Chadha, an integrative psychiatrist in Dublin, Ireland, told Mental Daily in an interview that health risks are prevalent during times of public health crises, affecting the ability to establish healthy mental well-being.
To learn how to maintain well-being, here are four strategic ways that will help you lead a healthier and happier life.
1. Focus On The Positive: Oftentimes, we tend to focus too much on the negative things in life. A stronger positive outlook in life requires work. An optimal exercise for improving one's positive outlook in life is to journal each evening three things that went well that day. Over time, you will have a stronger interaction between thinking and feeling, developing a more positive outlook of life, thus improving your well-being.
2. Build Resilience: One of the best ways to cope with stressors is by implementing relaxation routines, such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness breathing. These non-strenuous exercises have been shown to be beneficial not just for well-being, but also for physical health. According to Dr. Chadha, having good family support can also help increase resilience, especially in times of health crises.
3. Increase Exercise: Adopting more exercise routines is another way of maintaining and improving both mental and physical health. Light and moderate exercises, for at least 30 minutes each day, have shown to be efficacious for increasing well-being and reducing the risk of cognitive decline, as well as metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
4. Eat Healthily: Restricting processed and high-fat foods can make a big difference to your mental health. Consuming more fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish oils, and high-fiber meals can lower anxiety and mood problems known to disrupt a healthy lifestyle.