Top 10 Tips to Prevent Mental Disorders - Slideshow

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Introduction

Mental illnesses can creep in under the disguise of stress or insomnia, to uncontrolled anxiety and sadness that snowballs into depression.

There is no fool-proof way to prevent mental disorders, however keeping a check on your stress levels, having a healthy mind, body and spirit, will help in boosting low self esteem and control mental disorders.

Be Physically Healthy and Active!

. Many studies relate poor physical health to mental instability. Chronic pain and illness can make a person depressed and stressed.

. Performing physical exercises like walking, running, aerobics or yoga help in reducing stress, tension and anger, and in the prevention of depression and anxiety.

. Tip - Eat healthy, go for routine health check ups and be active at every possible instance.

Connect with Others!

. Aristotle said 'Man is a social animal by nature. He cannot live without society, if he does so; he is either beast or God.'

. Research has demonstrated numerous benefits of social connection, including greater happiness, better health and a longer life.

. Tip - Don't hesitate to share and discuss your problems with your family and friends. Sharing is caring! Seek help before it is too late.

Stay Positive!!

. Thinking negatively can cause anticipatory anxiety and nervousness. It can drag your mood down, affect your actions and even your health.

. Cultivate a practice of being optimistic, positive and happy.

. Creating avenues of good feelings can boost your ability to bounce back from stress, solve problems, think flexibly and even fight disease.

Sleep Well!

. Chronic insomnia can hamper your thinking ability and cognitive responses, leading to depression and anxiety.

. Tip - The human body and mind need sleep for around 6 to 8 hours per day. No matter how busy you are; prioritize your sleep!! Give your mind the relaxation it requires, and help it to function better.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs and Get Medical Help

. Mental health conditions can be harder to treat, if you wait until symptoms worsen.

. Contact your doctor, if you notice any new symptoms or changes in symptoms or how you feel.

. Consider getting family members or friends involved to look out for warning signs.

Learn Stress Management

. Life is full of challenges. Overcoming life's hurdles make the journey worth the effort.

. Stress and tension will always be a part of life, learn to handle them better. Research shows that, those who spent time writing about a difficult event had better health and less depression.

. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing and yoga.

Avoid Alcohol and Drug Abuse

. Indulging in alcoholism or drug abuse can be another trigger factor for mental disorders.

. If you are someone who looks towards alcohol or drugs to deal with stress and problems; you must stop these habits right away.

. Abuse will only lead to newer problems for both the mind and body, not solve existing ones

Challenge your Brain

. If your job doesn't challenge your mind, or if you are a retired person, keep your mind active by doing puzzles, crosswords and playing chess.

. Learn a new skill, language or a challenging hobby and keep your mind engaged. Keep your problem solving abilities alive and active.

Help Others

. Studies show that those who constantly help others, are much better acquainted with difficulties of life and have less chances of depression and anxiety.

. People involved in social service experience greater peace, better health and live longer.

Take Care of your Spirit

. Spirituality can mean something different for everyone. Connect to what you find meaningful and what gives you peace.

. It may be higher power, compassion or nature; it will bring a more positive attitude towards life and help you cope better with depression and loneliness.