Our mental health is significantly affected by the things that happen around us on a daily basis. Surprisingly, these things include common habits that we may not think too much of. Bad habits such as drinking too much, skipping breakfast, and isolating oneself socially, can have a big impact on our mind and mood in the long run. Thankfully, it is possible to stop many of these habits and lead a happier and more productive life.
In this article, we take a look at 5 habits that could be sabotaging your mental health and show you ways in which you can avoid them.
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Spending Too Much Time On Your Phone
Smartphones are one of the greatest innovations of the 21st century. When used in moderation, they can help with various tasks and positively impact the way we run our daily lives. However, spending a lot of time on your smartphone or using it right before bedtime may not be the best thing to do for your mental health.
Several studies show that abrupt reduction of cellphone use leads to withdrawal symptoms. Moreover, they suggest that the blue light emitted by smartphones can interfere with our sleep and raise our chances of developing depressions. So, it is crucial to limit the use of your smartphone for the sake of your mental health.
Social Isolation
Social isolation often occurs as a result of anxiety, depression, and other mental issues. On the other hand, however, it could also increase the likelihood of developing these problems. Staying close to friends and family helps to protect against depression and boost your mood. Even if you have a busy schedule or are not in the mood, make an effort to connect with friends and loved ones even if for just a few minutes a day. Socialising is a great way to uplift yourself and it often leads to more fun than we expect.
Overworking
Not having a work-life balance can result in stress and increase our risk of mental health problems. Try to prioritise your values and create a schedule that aligns with them. Also, set aside time for breaks and relaxing with family and friends. In this way, you will be able to have appropriate amounts of time for both work and your personal life.
Not having a work-life balance can result in stress and increase our risk of mental health problems. Try to prioritise your values and create a schedule that aligns with them. Also, set aside time for breaks and relaxing with family and friends. In this way, you will be able to have appropriate amounts of time for both work and your personal life.
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Sleeping Late At Night
Going to bed early is a challenge for many due to the demands of our everyday lives and even distracting activities. Apparently, though, staying up late is another habit that could be sabotaging on your mental health. One study revealed that students who went to bed late were “the more likely to suffer from negative thoughts, rumination worries, and overall low moods than those who achieved light out on the earlier side.”
Drinking Too much
Drinking too much alcohol can have many negative effects on the body including depressing your nervous system. It may slow you down mentally and decrease your mood to a significant level. Endeavor to limit your intake to moderate levels. Some recommended intake for men is two drinks per day and one drink for women. When it comes to a social gathering, be sure to pace yourself, keep track of the amount you drink, and alternate alcoholic beverages with water.
Source:
NCBI
Daily Mail
Featured Image Source: Ebony Magazine
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