As a licensed social worker in education, I focus heavily on and teach social, emotional, mental and physical well-being to my students and families. While I teach research based information, I provide practical tips on how to live a healthy, balanced life in a world where you experience so much toxicity, stress, transition, trauma, etc.

Your mental health influences the way you think, behave, feel, in daily living. Being social, emotionally, and mentally healthy goes beyond having a mental diagnosis. I’m referring to cultivating a positive life with a strong mentality. 

My audience is generally teenagers but these tips and strategies are applicable for adults as well. You may have heard these already, and that’s okay, but if not, take what you need and tweak it to fit you. 

5 ways to boost your overall mental health well being: 

  1. Incorporate face to face interaction with other people. We get so caught up in our social media worlds that we tend to forget the importance of quality relationships with people. Surround yourself around people who push you to grow and develop. We’re human beings that were created to thrive in community. 
  2. Involve yourself in regular physical activities. Physical activities like running, walking, lifting weights, dancing have improved my mood a great deal. I release a lot of stress by just engaging in physical activities. It also wears me out so I get a good nights sleep out of it too. 
  3. Figure out what stress relief technique works for you. We will have highs and lows on a regular basis but think of ways that will help you manage those stressors. I like to journal and read my Bible. I also like to listen to gospel music or 90s r&b. The calm app is another good resource. 
  4. Healthy diet is everything. I get teased for being on my health kicks but it works! Brain food is a real thing. I’m no health coach or nutritionist but based on research, the foods I tend to eat most are mood boosting such as fish, avocados, nuts, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, fresh squeezed juices, berry smoothies. 
  5. Know your why. What’s your purpose in life because everyone has one. Know what gives you meaning. Understanding my why gives me a boost of motivation on days when I just don’t feel like it but life isn’t all about us. It’s about how we can contribute to others around us. 

Now, this list is not exhaustive but it’s a good start. I understand everyone has different resources so adjust it will look different from one person to the next but these are a few things I try my best to stick with and I know when I’m off kilter I revert back to one of these strategies. If you have more to add, please comment below. 

Peace and Blessings!