Easy Habits That Can Improve Your Mental Health

• Bust the Blues- Sometimes you need a mental lift. There are some simple steps you can take to build a “happiness habit” that may help get you through a tough spell. These pick-me-ups aren’t meant to replace treatment for serious depression, acute anxiety, or other clinical issues.
  

• Curb Clutter- Studies have found that when you’re surrounded by stuff, the visual chaos goes straight to your brain. It distracts you and gets in the way of your ability to process info and amps up the stress hormone Cortisol that causes weight gain.
  

• Buy Yourself Something Nice- It doesn’t have to be a spree for fancy electronics or a new designer wardrobe.So try a little smart shopping to help snap you out of short-term sadness. Just make sure your picks fit your budget, too.
  

• Ticket to Read- The fastest ticket out of a bad mood is still the simplest: a riveting read. Make sure it’s a pleasure read -- not the news, your computer manual, or even your latest book club pick. Find a book you’ve wanted to check out or a juicy magazine.
  

• Pet a Furry Friend-Spend extra quality time with your own pet, or volunteer at a shelter or adoption event to make some new furry friends to cuddle and play with. Just 10 minutes with a pet or furry friend can decrease your stress.
  

• Catch a Groovy Beat- An Italian study found quick tempos can help calm you, too. It just happens when the music stops. After listening to fast-paced songs, the subjects’ blood pressures and heart rates mellowed.