6 ACTIVITIES TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH AS AN ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICEMEMBER

As an active duty service member, you face a lot of stressors that civilians do not have to worry about, both physically and mentally. For this reason, it is important to ensure that you are fit in both of those areas. However, physical health can be hard to maintain without stable mental health. Good mental health will help all active duty service members with things like mission readiness, team cohesion, resilience, prevention of harm, and quality of life. Below, we are going to be sharing 6 activities to improve mental health for active duty service members.

Related read: NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING CAN HELP TROOPS IMPROVE THEIR MENTAL HEALTH

Activities to Improve Mental Health

Talking about Military mental may be a challenge due to the negative stigmas associated with having a weak mental or seeking help. Actively doing activities to improve mental health may be a challenge also. The good thing is, there are plenty of fun activities to improve mental health that can help this necessary task feel less challenging. Here are six activities to improve mental health:

1. Exercise

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve mental health. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. Activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing can be beneficial.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and improve overall well-being. Techniques like deep breathing, guided meditation, or mindful walking can be incorporated into daily routines.

3. Creative Expression

Engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, writing, or playing music can be therapeutic and provide an outlet for self-expression. Creativity can help reduce anxiety, boost mood, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

Suggested read: HOW TO RENT OUT YOUR HOUSE TO MILITARY TENANTS: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

4. Social Connection

Building and maintaining social connections is essential for mental health. Spending time with friends and loved ones, joining clubs or groups with shared interests, or volunteering can provide opportunities for social interaction and support.

5. Learning and Personal Growth

Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind and promote personal growth, such as reading, journaling, learning a new skill or hobby, or setting and working towards goals, can foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

6. Seeking Professional Support

If none of these activities work for you and you are constantly struggling with mental health challenges, it is essential to reach out for professional support. Therapy, counseling, or support groups can provide valuable guidance, coping strategies, and emotional support.

Turning Activities Into Habits to Improve Health

Doing an activity constantly using regular intervals can make it go from an activity to a habit. This is important to do because doing something once will not ensure the problem is fixed. To keep a healthy mental, active duty service members must constantly perform these activities to improve mental health.

Maintaining good mental health in the Military is not easy, but by trying the activities in this guide, you are sure to find a few activities to improve mental health that work for you.

Read next: THE INS AND OUTS: DOES THE MILITARY PAY FOR COLLEGE?