Unhealthy eating habits, insufficient exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of sleep are all well-known contributors to poor mental health. However, there are other less-known factors that can also lead to mental health issues.
Here are six surprising things you might not expect to be affecting your mental health:
1. Comparing yourself to other people
Our unique differences are what make us who we are. It’s natural to compare ourselves to others, but it’s essential to recognise that we are not the same. In fact, embracing our individuality makes life more exciting and diverse.
However, constantly questioning how we can be more like others can be detrimental to our mental health. This form of self-reflection can be damaging, especially when comparing ourselves to impossible standards.
Instead, we should focus on achieving our own goals and celebrate our unique strengths and abilities.
2. Having negative thoughts
With a constant stream of news, information and events, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. This feeling is further amplified by binge-watching news or reading negative reports.
Are you experiencing anxiety or restless nights due to negative thoughts? These could be warning signs of a detrimental mindset. A healthy mindset involves regulating your emotions and thought patterns. If you notice an imbalance, try incorporating calming methods like yoga, meditation, relaxation and taking regular breaks. If you’re struggling to relax, ask us about our free and paid for relaxation classes.
Remember to stay positive and prioritise your mental health.
3. Not knowing how to say no
Do you struggle to say “no” when asked to do something?
If so, it’s possible that you’re unwittingly putting too much emphasis on pleasing others, even at the expense of your own mental health. According to Dr. Vanessa Bohns, Assistant Professor at the University of Waterloo in Canada, saying “no” can feel like a threat to our relationships and our sense of connectedness. We want to show others that we’re committed to the relationship and that we value their opinions.
However, saying “yes” to everything can also lead to stress, resentment and burnout. Learning how to say “no” politely and assertively can help you set healthy boundaries and protect your mental health.
4. Spending too much time on social media
Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family, share your interests and opinions, and learn new things. However, spending too much time on social media can also have negative effects on your mental health.
According to a study by the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK, social media can increase feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness and low self-esteem. This is partly due to the unrealistic expectations and comparisons that social media can create.
To avoid these pitfalls, try limiting your screen time, unfollowing accounts that make you feel bad about yourself, and engaging in more offline activities that bring you joy.
5. Having poor posture
Did you know that your posture can affect your mood?
According to a study by San Francisco State University in the US, slouching can make you feel more depressed, anxious and fatigued. This is because poor posture can affect your breathing, blood flow and nervous system.
On the other hand, sitting or standing up straight can make you feel more confident, alert and happy. This is because good posture can improve your oxygen intake, circulation and hormone levels.
To improve your posture, try doing some stretches every hour, using ergonomic furniture and devices, and practicing mindfulness of your body alignment.
6. Not drinking enough water
Water is essential for our physical health, but it also plays a vital role in our mental health. Water helps regulate our body temperature, flush out toxins, transport nutrients and oxygen to our cells, and lubricate our joints and organs.
Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, irritability and confusion. These symptoms can affect our mood, concentration and performance.
To stay hydrated, try drinking at least eight glasses of water per day (more if you exercise or live in a hot climate), eating more fruits and vegetables that contain water (such as cucumbers or watermelon), and avoiding drinks that dehydrate you (such as alcohol or caffeine).
Conclusion
It’s not always easy to take responsibility for our actions, but it’s necessary for our own progress. It’s important to shift our perspective and recognise that just as we’re willing to help others, there are people who are ready and willing to support us too. Remember, it’s not the end of the world, and people will understand. They’re only human, after all.
So, take the time you need to yourself and prioritise your mental health. Instead of worrying about what others think, focus on achieving your own goals and celebrating your unique strengths and abilities.
Which of these habits do you find yourself doing the most? Can you relate?
If you’d like some help with prioritising your own mental health, by hypnotherapy and/or coaching, then do contact us and see how we can help you.
