In some situations it is difficult to prevent mental diseases especially in people who come from families with a history of psychiatric disease, or in those who were exposed to traumatic experiences like abuse in their childhood. However, mental illnesses are avoidable, especially those that are related to an unhealthy lifestyle: lack of relaxation and sleep; low self esteem; insufficient physical exercise; too much exposure to stress; abuse of alcohol or illicit drugs; etc.
The following tips are useful in preventing mild depression, anxiety and dementia as they promote a well balanced and healthy way of life.
- Pay attention to the way you relate to yourself. Only think positively, avoiding any negative self-talk. Continuously preserve your dignity and keep away from describing yourself as a worthless person. Show confidence in whatever you do and never underestimate yourself. Be aware that a positive mindset leads to positive emotions and attitudes. If you fill your mind with good thoughts you will always live a harmonious life.
- Avoid things that send you negative messages. Do not read books or watch programs that upset you. Also, break up with any person who has a detrimental influence upon you.
- Be professional in your approach to life - it will help you gain self respect and the consideration of others. In addition, it will have a good impact on your financial status.
- Try to smile warmly most of the day. It will improve your communication skills and help you to deal with any difficult situation more easily.
- Be respectful - if you are kind to others, they will be kind to you, but if you are rude, they will give you a hard time. Bear in mind that your relationships are one of the most important protective factors in maintaining a well balanced personality; therefore, make sure you spend quality time with your family, and friends.
- Invest time in your hobbies: reading, traveling, singing, dancing etc. The more fun you have, the more you are protected against mental illnesses. Also, enjoy the simple things in life like being with your loved ones.
- Practice physical exercises on a regular basis - at least three to four times a week for about 30 minutes each day - research has shown that people who exercise regularly are less likely to get depressed than those who do not. Other studies showed that exercises are as effective in fighting mild depression as those treated with Prozac. Exercise can also help reduce high cholesterol and high blood pressure. You can choose from a wide range of activities, like walking, cycling, dancing, swimming, or by practicing martial arts.
- Eat healthy food - it will contribute to your general sense of well being. The healthiest foods are whole meal bread, cereals, fruits and vegetables, low-fat milk and dairy foods, meat, fish and alternatives such as beans and lentils. Cut down on greasy food like pies, sausages and cream.
- Do mental exercises regularly. Keeping up with current events, solving Sudokus or puzzles; memorizing new information will help you to maintain a smart and alert mind.
- Be realistic in your expectations - do not aim higher than you can reach. Also, don't take more responsibilities that you can handle. .
- Set sensible priorities in order to have more control over your life. Do things when they are supposed to be done and avoid procrastination.
- Avoid illicit drugs and do not abuse alcohol. They can easily control you, making you lose whatever it is important for you.
- Make sure that you have an intimate life full of satisfaction - it helps to have a good self esteem and a better capacity to cope with daily streses
- Learn to relax when you are tired. Make sure that you sleep enough. Be aware that the less you sleep during the night, the more you are exposed to chronic fatigue and depression.
- Involve in spiritual activities - it will provide you with a good insight into the purpose of life, helping you to avoid nihilistic or suicidal ideas
- Learn to forgive if somebody does something wrong to you. Also learn to forgive yourself for all the mistakes you make willingly or unwillingly.
- Learn to love yourself and extend that love to all around you. Love unconditionally, seeking to make others happy and cherishing the good things in your personality.
