What are some things I can do on my own to improve my mental health and support recovery from mental illness?

Formal mental health services and treatments provided by professionals in hospital, community-based settings, and private practices can be an important part of managing the symptoms of mental illness. There are also many things you can do on your own, based on your personal needs and preferences, to support your mental health and promote recovery.

Self-care is important for your mental health. Some examples of things we can do for our own mental health include but are not limited to the following:

• Exercise
• Eating well
• Mindfulness
• Listening to music
• Taking a bubble bath
• Going to a movie, or watching a movie at home
• Or simply whatever allows you to relax and unwind

Self-care is not just for someone recovering from a mental illness; it’s the things we do every day to nurture ourselves and look after our well-being.