help yourself now with the basics of positive mental health

When folks come to see me for problems with depression and anxiety I usually recommend some very basic things that help with mood and mental health.

Here's my list of the basics of good health and taking care of oneself:

**As much as possible try to get up in the morning and go to bed in the evening at the same time every day (erratic sleeping can greatly affect mood and mental health)

**Get some moderate exercise daily - even if it's just a fifteen minute walk around the block

**Spend time outside getting some fresh air and especially sunshine (try to get around ten minutes of sunshine daily)

**Eat nourishing nutritious food - focus on lots of fruits and veggies and limit trans fats and processed foods (but try not to obsess about it)

**Drink lots of water and limit caffeine and alcohol

**take an omega 3 supplement such as fish oil or flax oil (research has shown the benefits of these on your brain and mood) or make sure you get enough omega 3s in your diet

**resist the temptation to isolate yourself - spend time with your friends and family on a regular basis

Doing these basics of self care may not solve your problems or difficulties, but they will definitely help your mental health. And you might be surprised at how much these little things will add up to you feeling better sooner.

For further information check out this article on tips for positive mental health.

Are you following these basics of good health?
If not, what is preventing you from taking care of yourself in this way?