Mental Health Tips for the Tired Millennial

Millennials have a lot going on, nowadays, and their challenges are quite different from their Baby Boomer predecessors. They’re exhausted, overworked, and constantly reprimanded by other generations, leading them to experience mental illness or poor mental health at a higher rate than others.

Sometimes, therapy is a big jump, and you need baby steps to help you care for yourself inside and out. Here are some essential mental health tips to help you keep your cool through all the chaos.

Focus on the present as opposed to revitalizing old failures and mistakes. You’ve learned from the past, so recognize that and take the rest with a grain of salt. Instead, focus on current goals and meals of achievement. This is a healthy coping mechanism for stress.

When you’re stressed out, stress eating can sometimes feel inevitable. But healthy foods often improve your mood and general physical feeling of well being. Instead of grabbing the Cheetos and ice cream, pick out your favorite fruits and veggies, with a sweet dip and savory dip to make them more appealing. Eggs, blueberries and salmon also boost mood and brain function.

Take a moment to breathe. This can be in the form of actual breathing exercises, a quick daily yoga session, or a meditation practice, either at home or in a studio. All of these practices help you cope with chaos and life’s drama, lowing cortisol levels and releasing tension with ease.

Remember to get out in nature once in a while, which can also do wonders for your stress and state of mind. With much of our generation glued to screens, this can seem difficult at times. Take a daily walk at your favorite park or choose a new hiking destination every weekend, as it can boost mental and bodily well being as well as increasing creativity and sharpening thinking. Even a good view does wonders!