Mental health tips for men, hmm that’s something you don’t hear often, right? Little did you know, your mental health defines your overall wellbeing. In fact, medically it is proven that your overall well being is cultivated through a healthy state of mind. However, getting men to pay attention and manage their psyche like physique, is a real challenge! The notion of ‘men shouldn’t cry’ remnants thereof, still exist today. However, this stigma around men’s health has to stop! And the first and foremost important step in that sense is for men to recognize ( uncomfortable or not) that your mental wellbeing is a huge part of success in the game of life.
Okay, you’re still not convinced on the importance of paying attention to your mental health, right? Consider this. Suicide rates among men is higher than among women. Believe it or not, but there’s a man somewhere on this planet taking his own life every 20 minutes! Now, let that sink in and all these confluence of factors is why we call the state of men’s mental health a silent crisis. Luckily, there are many ways to build your mental will and resiliency.
Below, andSons has gathered the best mental health tips for men that can improve your mental state. Rather than chores, think of them as a diet plan and exercise regimen for your mind.
1. Open Up About Your Situation To Someone
Men in general have this habit of suppressing emotions, avoiding painful feelings and denying mental fatigue. This isn’t surprising because gender roles are planted in our mind for the moment of our existence. Unconsciously these gender norms and expectations from life around you will hold you from expressing your emotion. But it is time to change and break this toxic chain. Give yourself permission to be burned-out and open up about painful feelings to someone you trust. Remember, it is totally OK to move into this space and share those thoughts.
2. Eat Healthy Wholesome Meals
One of key way to keep your mind intact is to fuel your brain with food that nourishes it. Healthy foods like fresh fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals that can nourish your mind, Unhealthy diet that include refined foods like sugary snacks and processed meat is not just harmful to your physical health but also your mental health. Multiple studies show that a diet high in refined sugars, salt and oil can lead to impaired brain function and depression. So, try to eat a balance meal packed with nutritious foods. Always remember, you are what you eat!
3. Don’t Use Alcohol and Drugs As Means of Escape
Many people cope with stress by drinking alcohol and taking recreational drugs. However, these shortcuts to pleasure will eventually be an addiction that can potentially kill you. You may not even realise you are doing it but don’t ever resort to shortcuts for help! That said, of course, you can go out with your friends for a pint or two, but just be more critical of your drinking pattern and know the difference between indulging alcohol for a good time and drinking to bury your pain and problems. If you really want help, as we said earlier acknowledged them and talk about it to your friends and family.
4. Exercise At Least 30 Minutes a Day
One of the simplest mental health tips for men is regular exercising as can have a profoundly positive impact on mental health. Apart from relieving mental issues like stress, depression and anxiety exercising can also improve your memory, sleep quality, and your overall mood. However, exercising should give you joy and do not do just merely for the sake of ‘ought to’ or ‘should’ do. It is important that you find an exercise that you enjoy and commit as little as 10 minutes every day to it. Whichever activity you choose, can improve your general well-being and self-esteem.
5. Get Some Proper Sleep
A surprise to many, mental health and sleep is actually quite co-dependent. So, by enjoying regular good night sleep you will feel less tired throughout the day and gives you more strength and energy to cope with the tasks of daily life. No matter how stress you are, don’t let it stop from you getting some sleep. Try to get a regular 7-9 hours sleep a night by limiting your device usage by the bed, switching off all lights and setting the room in the right temperature. Making your bedroom a haven for sleep can seriously help with your mental health!
6. Indulge in Self-Care Practice
Okay, boys remember self-care is not selfish especially in times of incredible anxiety and stress. Focusing on what makes you feel nourished, is part of easing those feelings and giving you a more solid foundation. If you are wondering what is self-care, well it includes myriad practices that you find enjoyable and healthy for both physical and mental health. Whether it is playing video games or enjoying expensive vodka, indulging in something you enjoy will make you feel good in and out.
7. Write Down Your Feelings and Emotions
One of the simplest mental health tips for men is to start writing down your thoughts and emotions. Take our words for it, you can never go wrong with writing a diary or journal. Putting your emotions into words will help you understand them more clearly. And if you struggle with stress, depression, or anxiety, keeping track of your emotions will help you gain control and improve your mental health. If you are someone who enjoys writing, you can even turn your words into poems, doodles and articles. It is time to get those creative juices flowing.
8. Visit a Psychologist
Men, in general, tend to shy away from their emotions hence consulting a psychologist may not have come across your mind, but visiting a psychologist can be a helpful tool in helping you. A professional psychologist will be able to help you clear your mind and manage any stress, anxiety, phobias, and other problems you are facing. Plus, professional help can also provide long term relief from symptoms of depression and other mental health problems.
9. Go On a Social Media Detox
Research shows that spending too much time on social media can take a huge toll on your mental health and that is why it is so important to take breaks from social media . Especially when you are under major stress and anxiety, taking some time off from the world and focusing on yourself is a great way to heal. A social media detox can help you get back on track again, Just should turn off all notifications, set time limits of how long you wanna go on the detox and meanwhile prioritise your own self-care with other activities you enjoy.
10. Try Meditating 10-20 Minutes a Day
Last but not least in our best mental health tips for men list is meditating. Meditation is most probably the easiest way to improve your mental health, and the best part is you don’t need any special equipment or space for it. For those that don’t know, meditation is the process of thinking deeply or focusing your mind for a set period of time. It can help reduce stress, ease symptoms of depression and anxiety, and regulate negative thinking. There are many meditation apps available, download and start meditating now.
