A recent survey of 4,000 UK adults uncovers that one in four individuals took no steps to nurture their mental health over the past month. Daily pressures from work, family, and routines often push personal wellbeing to the back burner. These insights emerge just before Mental Health Awareness Week (May 11-17), which focuses on the theme of “action.” Experts recommend integrating small, practical habits to elevate mood and foster overall mental wellness.
Alexa Knight, director of policy and influencing at the Mental Health Foundation, stresses the need for tangible steps: “We really want people to not only think about their mental health, but to actually take concrete action.”
Knight continues: “There’s a lot more understanding of mental health and how important it is, but so many of us don’t take action for ourselves or for others, and there are lots of quick, simple things we can all do that will have an impact on our mental health. It’s important that we all try and prioritise doing something for ourselves, even if it’s just a small thing every week.”
8 Practical Steps to Enhance Mood and Wellbeing
1. Spend Time in Nature
Time outdoors delivers a swift mental lift, Knight explains. Exposure to the natural world shifts focus outward, refreshes the environment, and sparks positive mindset changes. A brief park stroll or garden sit-down yields noticeable benefits.
2. Move Your Body
Daily movement suits any fitness level and profoundly benefits mental health, Knight notes. Options range from kitchen dancing to chair yoga—no marathons required.
3. Take Screen Breaks
Many turn to phones for relaxation, but amid global challenges, Knight advises deliberate pauses. Grant yourself permission to step away from scrolling.
4. Plan a Friend Meetup
Schedule time with friends to build anticipation and hope, Knight suggests. Looking forward to social connections offers strong mental protection.
5. Build a Calming Bedtime Routine
Avoid screens an hour before bed, cultivate a serene space, and engage in soothing pursuits like bathing, music, or reading, Knight recommends. These practices ease the mind into rest.
6. Stay Hydrated
Physical and mental health interconnect closely, so hydration supports both, Knight points out. Ample water intake sharpens focus, memory, and mood.
7. Note Three Gratitudes
Jot down three daily gratitudes, even minor ones like a neighbor chat or reliable friends, Knight advises. This practice redirects thoughts toward positivity and optimism.
8. Learn a New Skill
Embracing challenges and novel pursuits fosters growth and mental resilience, Knight says. New hobbies divert from negativity, promoting creativity and calm focus.
