7 Effective Ways to Improve Mental Health for Teens and Adults

7 Effective Ways to Improve Mental Health for Teens and Adults

Introduction

A child's and an adult’s life can be filled with endless opportunities in terms of career, personal growth, and fostering healthy relations with other people. All these experiences can shape an individual and their choices. However, everyday activities related to school, sports, professional environment, friends, family, and fears of the future can take a toll on one's mental health as well.

It is quite common for one to face some challenges and experience negative emotions from time to time. However, if these negative emotions start to impact a person's mental state permanently, then it might be a matter of concern. Hence, both kids and adults must practice habits that improve their mental health and encourage a positive mindset.

7 Habits That Are Effective For A Healthy Mind

Regardless of age, individuals ranging from children to adults may experience negative emotions from time to time. However, what makes the difference is how one decides to tackle these emotions. Here are seven habits that can effectively reduce stress and negative feelings.

Accept Your Feelings

The journey towards a healthy and peaceful mind starts with accepting one's feelings and not living in constant denial. Many times, suppressing emotions, such as anger, fear, sadness, and anxiety, can lead to prolonged difficulties with coping and articulating one’s emotions. According to the Author's Manuscript published in 2020, various habits such as journaling, talking with a friend or counselor, and going for a walk can help a child or adult better understand their feelings.

Accept Changes

There are times when individuals, especially teenagers, may witness some significant changes in their lives. This may include heightened emotions, body changes, and changes in the dynamics with family and friends. Additionally, adults may face situations such as job changes, the loss of friendships, or the end of close connections. These changes may make a person feel stressed as they have to deal with unexpected feelings and situations. Instead of fighting against these changes, one's life can become a lot easier if one starts accepting these changes and learning how to become more dynamic and spontaneous.

Regulate Social Media Consumption

As per Cureus published in 2023, the regular consumption of social media content may lead to anxiety and depression among kids and even adults. An individual may be continuously immersed in comparing their life with others’ social media lives. This may lead to a feeling of inferiority complex and cause mental distress. A child may also suffer from social isolation. Moreover, individuals are more prone to cyberbullying as anyone can send them anonymous messages and comments. To avoid all of this, both parents and kids can restrict their social media consumption and focus more on making real-life connections.

Ask Questions

Parents and kids need to have a healthy relationship with each other. This helps them share their feelings and ask relevant questions to stay in touch with each other's lives. There are times when your child may have confusion related to their personal or academic life. In such a scenario, you can be one of the best guides and friends for your kid. Similarly, parents can also learn a lot from their kids. Having healthy conversations and giving each other the freedom to find logical and rational questions can always help in improving relations.

Make Real Life Connections

Regardless of the multiple uses of social media and virtual ways of connection, there is no substitute for real-life connections. Having a social circle of one's own can act as an emotional outlet for both kids and adults. A like-minded community can have a positive and stimulating effect on one’s being. Moreover, you may also learn so much from other people who are interested in the same things as you. It may lead to some positive experiences and cherished friendships for a lifetime.

Take Professional Help When Needed

As per Taylor & Francis's Open Select published in 2014, seeking professional help can help reduce stress, anxiety, and other such negative emotions. Instead of dealing with things on your own for a long time, one can seek professional help from a psychologist or a counselor. These individuals are trained professionals who can guide you by helping you navigate your feelings. You may also learn some great coping mechanisms and strategies that can help you live long.

Practice Different Activities

Instead of focusing on just academics or professional life, kids and adults can try to develop a holistic schedule. This may include exercising regularly, painting, reading, or doing any other activity. Designing your day in a more balanced way can help in avoiding fatigue and exhaustion. Moreover, all these activities can act as a creative outlet to get away from the stress of professional obligations.

Conclusion

It's very important to take your mental health seriously and not treat any mental concerns like a social taboo. Also, creating an inclusive community where everyone feels belonged and respected can help individuals dealing with stressful situations. Moreover, talking openly about such concerns can help in normalizing mental health problems and encourage people to seek professional help for the same.