Engaging work that provides meaning to yourself and others . Partake in activities that challenge your creativity and make you feel productive , whether or not you get paid for them . Some ideas are gardening , drawing , writing , playing an instrument , or building something in your workshop .
Relationships . Spending quality time where you give of yourself to people who matter to you , whether they ’ re friends , grandkids , or elderly relatives , can support both your health and theirs , while also providing a sense of purpose .
Caring for a pet . Yes , pets are a responsibility , but caring for one makes you feel needed and loved . There ’ s no love quite as unconditional as the love a pet can give . Animals can also get you out of the house for exercise and expose you to new people and places .
Volunteering . Just as we ’ re hard-wired to be social , we ’ re also hard-wired to give to others . The meaning and purpose derived from helping others or the community can enrich and expand your life — and make you happier . There ’ s no limit to the individual and group volunteer opportunities you can explore . Schools , churches , nonprofits , and charitable organizations of all sorts depend on volunteers for their survival .
Caregiving . Taking care of an aging parent , a handicapped spouse , or a child with a physical or mental illness is an act of kindness , love , and loyalty — and can be as rewarding and meaningful as it is challenging .
If you ’ ve made consistent efforts to improve your mental and emotional health and still aren ’ t functioning optimally at home , work , or in your relationships , it may be time to seek professional help . Following these self-help steps will still benefit you , though . In fact , input from a caring professional can often help motivate us to take better care of ourselves .
When some people are feeling overwhelmed or stressed out , they might try yoga , mindfulness , or even a massage , but for others giving the shelves a quick dust , wiping down the kitchen , or even organizing the closet is just as beneficial for their mental health as using a mindfulness app .