When your head hurts, or your stomach bug won't go away, your first port of call is usually the doctor. We all do it because we know doctors and medical professionals can help us return to normal health.

However, if people feel depressed or anxious, they're less likely to get help when needed because mental health is still stigmatised in the UK.

If you've ever had to deal with depression, anxiety or any other mental health condition, you'll know it's not easy, and there's no magic pill that will make everything disappear in a few days.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to boost your mental health, and we're going to reveal them in this post.

Let's get started.

Don't Be Ashamed To Talk About Your Mental Health

The first and most important thing to remember is that you're not alone. The NHS estimates that one in four adults and one in ten children experience mental health problems yearly, so you're certainly not the only one.

Despite this, there's still a lot of stigma surrounding mental health, which means people are often afraid or ashamed to talk about their problems. This needs to stop.

If you're struggling with your mental health, the first step is to talk about it with someone who will understand and can offer support.

Don't suffer in silence – talking about your mental health is a courageous thing to do.

Exercise

We all know that exercise is good for physical health, but did you know it's also great for our mental wellbeing?

When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. You'll feel better after a workout, and regular exercise can also help to prevent or reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

What's more, exercising outdoors is even more beneficial for mental health than indoor workouts, so try to get outside as much as possible.

Eat A Healthy Diet

What we eat significantly impacts how we feel, both physically and mentally. Eating lots of processed and sugary foods can make us feel sluggish, while a healthy, balanced diet will give us more energy and help to improve our mood.

Make sure you get plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats in your diet. And try to limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol and refined sugars.

Get Enough Sleep

When we're tired, we're more likely to feel anxious, irritable and down. Sleep plays a vital role in our mental health, giving our brains a chance to rest and repair themselves.

Most adults need around eight hours of sleep per night, so ensure you get enough shut-eye. If you're struggling to sleep, you can try a few things, such as cutting out caffeine in the evening, reading before bed and investing in a comfortable mattress.

Manage Stress

Stress is a normal part of life, but if it's getting on top of you, then it could be affecting your mental health. When stressed, our bodies release cortisol, which can adversely affect our mood and wellbeing.

Try to find ways to manage stress in your life, such as exercising regularly, meditating or spending time with friends and family. If you're struggling to cope with stress alone, don't be afraid to ask for help from a therapist or counsellor.

Use CBD Oil

CBD oil is a natural remedy becoming increasingly popular for treating various health conditions, including mental health disorders.

Studies have shown that CBD oil can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep, which is essential for maintaining good mental health (NCBI). Better still, CBD oil is non-addictive and has very few side effects, making it a safe and effective treatment option.

If you're interested in trying CBD oil, it's best to buy it from a reputable source and speak to your doctor first. The Molecule London team can help you choose from a range of products that help you relax and boost your mood.

Join A Community

One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to find a community of like-minded people. When we feel isolated and alone, our mental health can suffer, but being part of a community can help us to feel supported and connected.

Whatever your interests are, there's sure to be a community for you. For example, if you're struggling with anxiety or depression, online support groups can offer advice and guidance. Or, if you love spending time outdoors, you could join a hiking group or nature club.

Find an activity that makes you happy and get involved in it – you'll soon start to feel mentally and physically better.

Take A Break From Technology

In today's world, it's easy to become addicted to our phones and other devices. We're constantly bombarded with notifications, news updates and social media posts, which can all add to our stress levels.

Try to take a break from technology as much as possible, especially before bedtime. Disconnecting from the digital world will help you to relax and unwind, and you might even find that you sleep better too.

Sending a few messages on WhatsApp might seem more convenient, but nothing beats seeing your loved ones in person, and it can make a world of difference to your mental state.

Try Meditation and Relaxation Techniques

Meditation and relaxation techniques are a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental wellbeing.

There are many different types of meditation, including Yoga and relaxation CDs, so it's worth researching to find one that suits you. Once you've found the correct technique, stick with it because the more regularly you meditate, the greater the benefits.

If you hate the idea of meditating, aromatherapy can also boost your mental state and soothe your senses.

The Bottom Line

These are just a few best ways to boost your mental health. If you're struggling with your mental wellbeing, don't suffer in silence – talk to your doctor or a therapist who can help you find the right solution.

Remember that it's okay not to be okay sometimes. We all have bad days, but it's how we deal with them that counts. Be kind to yourself, and know that things will get better eventually.