How to look after your mental health. It’s important to take care of yourself and get the most from life. Making simple changes to how you live doesn’t need to cost a fortune or take up loads of time.

A good strategy to be more connected with yourself is talking about your feelings which isn’t a sign of weakness.
Talking can be a way to cope with a problem you’ve been carrying around in your head for a while.

Just being listened to can help you feel supported and less alone. And it works both ways. If you open up, it might encourage others to do the same.
It’s not always easy to describe how you’re feeling. If you can’t think of one word, use lots. What does it feel like inside your head? What does it make you feel like doing?
Remember that you don’t need to sit your loved ones down for a big conversation about your wellbeing. Many people feel more comfortable when these conversations develop naturally – maybe when you’re doing something together.

Another great way to take care of yourself is exercise. Exercise releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem and help you concentrate, sleep and feel better.
Exercise also keeps the brain and your other vital organs healthy.

Exercising doesn’t just mean doing sport or going to the gym. Walks in the park, gardening or housework can also keep you active. Experts say most people should do about 30 minutes’ exercise at least five days a week.

Try to make physical activity that you enjoy a part of your day.

And lastly, try to eat well.

There are strong links between what we eat and how we feel, for example, caffeine and sugar can have an immediate effect in someone’s mood.

But food can also have a long-lasting effect on your mental health. Your brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well, just like the other organs in your body.

A diet that’s good for your physical health is also good for your mental health.
A healthy balanced diet includes:

* lots of different types of fruit and vegetables
* wholegrain cereals or bread
* nuts and seeds
* dairy products
* oily fish
* plenty of water.
Eat at least three meals each day and drink plenty of water. Try to limit how many high-caffeine or sugary drinks you have, and avoid too much alcohol.

Following these three simple strategies your emotional well-being can increase.
Have you gone outside already today?