3 Habits That Could Be Affecting Your Mental Health

Oftentimes, when we think about what could harm our mental health, our minds go to major life events—the loss of a job, the end of a relationship, or the death of a loved one. But small habits that often go unnoticed can also play a major role.

Here are three common habits that could be going unnoticed and negatively impacting your mental health:

1. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is a main pillar to your overall wellness. Sleep impacts your mental health in numerous ways—it can affect your cognitive skills, mood, and behavior. As such, failing to get enough sleep can increase your risk of anxiety and depression and make it more difficult for you to focus, solve problems, make decisions, remember things, and control your emotions and impulses. Try sticking to the same sleep schedule, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and performing a relaxing activity before bed (e.g., taking a warm bath or reading). Take the time to make this intentional and a place you want to be.

2. Being Inactive

In today’s busy world, it can be difficult to find time to exercise, but it’s important to stay active. Not only can exercise improve your physical health, but it can also boost your mental health. In fact, studies have shown that regularly exercising could reduce your risk of depression. Being intentional with moving your body daily (in some way) and finding movement that brings you joy is the main goal! Schedule a time with your friends to get together on Fridays to play pickleball, setup a swim schedule or walk with a family member at your local park.

3. Scrolling Through Social Media

Social media can be beneficial—it can help you stay connected to long-distance family and friends and keep up with current events—but research suggests that spending too much time on it can lead to anxiety and depression. To reduce your screen time, try setting a timer, turning off notifications, or deleting apps from your phone. Let's be real, many of us can find ourselves doom scrolling and avoiding that part of our phone that tracks our screen time.

Start Improving Your Mental Health

In addition to breaking the habits described above, one of the best things you can do to boost your mental health is speak to a therapist. Fortunately, you can entrust your care to the skilled team here at, Deeply Rooted Psychotherapy. Once we’ve learned more about you and any issues you may be experiencing, we’ll be able to provide you with customized guidance for how to manage habits that are keep you from living the life you want and explore habits that foster the fulfilling life you dream of. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.