Improve Your Mental Health in One Hour

New year, better mental health habits.

Even if you only have one hour to spare, here are 6 things you can do to improve your mental state and stay healthy this semester.

Disconnect: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Instead of spending time scrolling social media, give your mind a break: take 30 minutes to disconnect completely and enjoy the feeling of being away from your screens.

Enjoy: 1 hour

Enjoy the feeling of enjoying yourself—spend one hour doing something you want to do. Taking this time to re-energize allows you to continue to be your best in other areas of your life.

Prepare: 15 minutes

List the people and things that have helped you through difficult times in the past. Now, add to this list things you do for yourself when you feel stressed. Keep this list and use it when needed. Knowing you have people, places, and practices to go to when you’re struggling can make a huge difference. Your campus counselling centre might also be a good place to start.

Connect: 1 hour

Once you’ve disconnected from the internet, try reconnecting. Take an hour to have coffee, work out, listen to music, or cook a healthy meal with a good friend. You’ll feel more fulfilled and rested than if you had used that time to text them.

Exercise: 20 minutes to 1 hour

Take an hour (or less!) to get your mind and body in sync by exercising. Drink water and sweat a little. Enjoy the rush your brain feels when you give your body what it needs.

Return: 15 minutes to 1 hour

Take time to remember your purpose. Why are you studying? What are you working towards? Recharging spiritually is the one of the most important steps you can take towards improving your mental health. Spend time in prayer, worship, and the Bible and think about these things throughout your day.

Even if it’s only for an hour, take time today to take care of your mind.