During Mental Health Awareness Month, it is crucial to recognize the various factors that influence mental health including lifestyle, diet, and nutrition.

Lifestyle encompasses several dimensions of daily life, including physical activity, sleep patterns, social interactions, spiritual activity, and stress management. These factors play significant roles in maintaining mental health.

Regular physical activity is known to boost mental health by releasing endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. Exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve self-esteem, and enhance cognitive function. Activities such as walking, jogging, yoga, and dancing can be particularly beneficial. A fast walk 3 days a week for 30 min will raise your serotonin, dopamine and endorphins also known as your happy hormones.

Adequate sleep is essential for mental health. Sleep disorders and inadequate rest can lead to mood disturbances, irritability, and cognitive impairments. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful environment can promote better sleep and in turn, better mental health.

Human beings are social creatures and building and maintaining healthy relationships can provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and enhance overall happiness. Isolation and poor social connections have the opposite effect on mental health issues. Spirituality can positively impact mental health by fostering a sense of purpose, meaning, and belonging, which can lead to improved emotional well-being and resilience. Excessive social media use can contribute to depression and anxiety. Studies have shown a correlation between heavy social media use and increased risks of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other mental health issues.

Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on mental health, leading to conditions such as high cortisol levels, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Effective stress management techniques, including mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and hobbies, can mitigate the negative impacts of stress.

A diet that is lacking good nutrition is equally pivotal in shaping mental health. The foods we consume directly affect brain function and neurotransmitter production, influencing mood and cognitive abilities. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to depression and anxiety.

A diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, provides essential nutrients that support brain health. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids found in these foods can improve mood and cognitive function.

There is a gut-brain connection and lack of good gut health can affect your mental health. Healthy microbiomes play a significant role in the production of neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Chemicals and antibiotics in our food will destroy our microbiome.

Most of us need extra support by taking a Multivitamin, B Vitamins, Minerals, and Methyl B-12 which can all be beneficial to our mental health and overall well-being.

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it is vital to acknowledge and prioritize these factors in our daily routines for optimal mental well-being. What are some things you are doing now to positively influence your mental health?