We live in arguably the most prosperous and technologically advanced time in human history. But even though Americans are some of the most fortunate people in the world, many of us are struggling with mental health, especially in light of COVID-19 and pandemic restrictions.
But if you’re struggling with depression or other mental health issues, know that you’re not alone. Even better, there are lots of things you can do to improve your mental health at home. Let’s take a look at some of these applications now.
Bring Some Plants Indoors!
Humans are meant to be surrounded by nature. To that end, consider bringing some of the outside world into your home by planting a few common houseplants or flowers! You need to have enough space to put these plants near natural light sources, like window sills and similar spots.
But if you do bring a few plants indoors, you’ll naturally start to feel a little better plus benefit from their calming presence. Additionally, just the act of building a habit to take care of the plants will give your life a little more structure and routine: two things that are known to improve mental health in people around the world.
Consider Installing Circadian Lighting
You should also think about installing circadian lighting throughout your home.
Circadian lights use special tunable or adjustable lights that can change their color, intensity, and brightness patterns to better match the rising and setting of the sun. In the morning, we are exposed to more blue light, which wakes us up and makes us feel energized.
In the evening, we are normally exposed to more red light, which slows us down and allows us to gracefully drift off to sleep. The problem is that artificial lights don’t include these light wavelengths and can mess with our bodies’ circadian rhythms.
Circadian lighting allows you to remain indoors and take care of work while still benefiting from semi-natural light. You’ll fall asleep more easily and you’ll wake up more energized than ever before.
All of this will have a positive effect on your mental health.
Install New, Wider Windows
Now’s the best time to undergo some mild home renovations! Nothing boosts mental health like shaking up the same walls you’ve been staring at for the past year!
Why not install new and wider windows so you can let in more natural light and fresh air? Again, humans are happier the more time we spend outside. If you’re having difficulty managing your mental health at home, try to bring more of nature indoors by opening the windows and letting the outside air freshen up your room.
Keep it Clean!
It’s all too easy to let clutter and trash pile up in your living room, bedroom, and kitchen. But all of that can have a negative effect on your mental health.
If you want to boost your mental health at home, try to keep things clean and tidy as much as possible. If you have a lot of huge messes and can’t stomach the idea of tackling them all at once, that’s okay! Try to break down the cleaning tasks into manageable chunks.
In no time at all, you’ll have a house you’re proud of and you’ll be able to walk around without stepping on clutter.
Get At Least One Walk a Day
Lastly, leave your home and take at least one walk per day. Even if you decide to wear a mask for extra safety, give yourself the opportunity to bask in natural sunshine and breathe in fresh air from time to time.
Dealing with mental health can be tough. But if you follow all of these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a brighter outlook and more positive mood in no time.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
