5 Ways To Improve Your Mental Health
This Men’s Health Week we want to help educate men around the biggest players in men, so they can make educated decisions when it comes to their lifestyle choices. According to Beyondblue, it's estimated that 45 per cent of people in Australia will experience some form of mental illness in their lifetime. There are currently one million Australian adults living with depression and two million battling anxiety. Here are five scientifically-backed ways to boost your mental health.
Mental gains
While investigating the effects of foods that are high in protein, scientists at Australia’s Edith Cowan University have found a correlation between protein levels and levels of amyloid beta in the brain. Amyloid beta is a chemical that can act as an identifier of poor brain health, with higher levels associated with a declined brain function.
Sweat it out
Head to the gym and leave with more than just physical gains, the benefits of breaking a sweat are scientifically proven to boost your mood. Heading out for a 10 minute brisk walk has also been shown to increase mental alertness, energy and positive mood.
Sleep it off
Is stress keeping you up at night? A study from Binghamton University Professor of Psychology, Meredith Coles, identified a link between poor sleep patterns and repetitive negative thoughts symptomatic of anxiety and depression. Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep a night to boost your mood.
Gut feeling
Having a gut feeling isn’t just a throwaway line, 90 per cent of your body’s serotonin (the happiness hormone) is made in your digestive tract. To look after your gut, Swisse Science Expert, João Paulino de Carvalho recommends “probiotics in the form of yoghurt and other fermented products.” He continues “as we continue to see developments in the study of the gut-brain axis.” Numerous studies conducted on the popular Mediterranean diet have identified a positive effect on both physical and mental health---.
Meditation Station
Meditation isn’t just one of the latest health trends, it is backed by growing amounts of scientific evidence as a daily practice to improve your mental health. A mediation newbie? Apps like Headspace and Insights Timer are great for beginners.
If depression is affecting your life or you need someone to talk to, please do not suffer in silence. Support is available here.
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Beyondblue: 1300 224 636
