can your pet improve your mental health
Kashish Pandey | Aug 19, 2025, 08:29 IST
( Image credit : Times Pets )
Highlight of the story: Mental health is more important than ever, especially with everything life throws at us. Whether you're studying, working, or just trying to get through the day, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. With a few simple changes, you can feel more balanced, calm, and in control.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 science backed strategies that can help boost your mental well being. These are simple, practical tips designed to help you feel calmer, happier, and more in control of your life.
Sleep isn’t just about rest. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have for protecting our mental health. When we don’t get enough quality sleep, it doesn’t just leave us feeling tired. It can also make us more anxious, moody, and less able to cope with stress. Over time, poor sleep can even increase the risk of anxiety and depression, according to experts like the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) and Archway Behavioral Health.
The good news is that improving your sleep doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes can lead to big improvements.
Stick to a routine:-Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. Your body’s internal clock works best when it follows a steady rhythm. Cut screen time before bed:-ices like phones and laptops give off blue light that can confuse your brain and make it harder to fall asleep. The National Institute of Mental Health recommends turning off screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
Create a calming bedtime ritual:-Wind down with something relaxing. This could be a warm shower, light stretching, reading a book, or listening to soft music. Experts at Beautiful Mind Health Services suggest avoiding anything too stimulating before bed, like intense workouts or heavy meals.
What you eat doesn’t just affect your body. It has a huge impact on your brain and mood too. A growing number of studies show that the food you choose each day can influence how you feel, how clearly you think, and how well you handle stress. Experts at MedStar Health and Archway Behavioral Health agree that a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the most effective tools for supporting mental well-being.
Here are a few food choices that really make a difference:
Add omega-3 fats:- Foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and chia seeds are packed with healthy fats that support brain health and reduce inflammation.
Eat more whole grains and leafy greens:-Brown rice, oats, lentils, spinach, and kale help keep your energy steady and support brain function. Include probiotics:- Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods like kimchi or sauerkraut help balance gut bacteria, which is closely connected to your mood and emotional health. Caspian Care and Archway Behavioral Health highlight the importance of gut-brain connection for mental resilience. At the same time, try to cut back on highly processed foods. Refined carbohydrates, sugary snacks, and fizzy drinks may give you a quick energy spike, but they’re often followed by a crash in mood and focus.
We often think of exercise as something we do for our physical health, but it plays a huge role in how we feel emotionally too. Regular movement doesn’t just help your body stay strong it helps your mind stay balanced.
Here are a few simple ways to get moving:
Go for a walk:-A brisk 30 minute walk each day can do wonders for your mood. Even short 10-minute walks, a few times a day, can help if you're short on time.
Try movement that feels fun:- Not into traditional workouts? That’s okay. Activities like dancing around your room, doing yoga, or even gardening count too. Sapna Health and Archway Behavioral Health highlight that the best kind of exercise is the one you enjoy and can stick with.
Move with others:- Physical activity is also a great way to connect with people. Consider going on a walk with a friend, joining a fitness class, or starting a weekend hike group.
You don’t need to be an athlete or follow a strict routine. Just find what works for your lifestyle and your energy level. Whether it’s dancing, walking, stretching, or playing a sport, movement in any form is one of the most natural ways to take care of your mental health.
Mindfulness and meditation have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help people feel more grounded, calm, and resilient under stress.
Here’s how you can get started:
Start small:-Begin with just 5 to 10 minutes of deep breathing or a short guided meditation each day. You can find plenty of free meditation apps or videos online to help you ease into it.
Practice mindful eating:- Instead of rushing through meals, take time to really taste your food. Notice the texture, the flavors, and even the temperature.
Try body scans:- This is a simple technique where you slowly bring your attention to different parts of your body, from your toes to your head, noticing how each area feels. Archway Behavioral Health and Ketto.org recommend this practice for reducing tension and becoming more aware of where your body might be holding stress.
Pause and breathe:- Throughout your day, take little moments to pause, breathe deeply, and check in with yourself. Even a single deep breath can interrupt a spiral of anxious thoughts and help bring you back to center.
Mindfulness isn’t about having an empty mind or doing it perfectly. It’s about learning to sit with your thoughts and emotions with kindness and curiosity. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes and the calmer and more connected you’ll begin to feel.
When you’re going through a tough time, talking to someone who really listens can make all the difference. Even on good days, staying socially connected gives you a sense of belonging, which helps you stay emotionally balanced and resilient.
Here are a few ways to strengthen your support system:
Make time for regular check-ins. Reach out to friends or family members, even just for a short chat. A quick phone call, a voice note, or grabbing coffee together can help maintain strong, healthy bonds.
Join a support group. Whether it’s peer-led or professionally guided, support groups either in person or online can be a safe space to share, listen, and feel understood. You don’t have to go through things alone, and hearing from others can offer new perspectives and comfort.
Engage in casual social moments. Connection doesn’t always have to be deep or emotional. Sometimes, chatting with a neighbor, joining a book club, or taking part in a group hobby can brighten your day and lift your mood.
Say yes more often. If you tend to isolate when you’re feeling low, try to gently push yourself to accept invitations or reach out first. It’s okay to start small.
Building a support network takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Surrounding yourself with positive, encouraging people creates a safety net that helps carry you through life’s ups and downs.
You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. The right people won’t just support your mental health they’ll remind you that you’re not alone, and that you matter.
Life can be overwhelming sometimes, and when stress builds up or negative thoughts take over, it’s easy to feel stuck. That’s where healthy coping strategies and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can make a real difference. CBT is a proven approach used by therapists around the world to help people understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors more effectively. According to Very well Mind, using these tools regularly can reduce anxiety, lift your mood, and help you feel more in control.
One of the core ideas in CBT is that our thoughts influence how we feel. If we can learn to challenge negative thinking patterns and replace them with more balanced, realistic ones, we can change the way we respond to difficult situations.
Here are a few ways you can start applying these skills in everyday life:
Practice positive self talk:- Notice the way you speak to yourself, especially when something goes wrong. Instead of saying, “I always mess up,” try, “I made a mistake, but I’m learning.” Being kinder to yourself is powerful.
Challenge negative thoughts:-Ask yourself, “Is this thought really true?” or “What evidence do I have for and against it?” Shifting your mindset can help break the cycle of worry or self-doubt.
Try behavioral activation:- This technique encourages you to do things that bring you joy or a sense of purpose, even when you don’t feel like it. It could be as simple as going for a walk, calling a friend, or working on a hobby.
Add structure to your coping tools:-Make a habit of journaling to process your emotions, set small daily goals, and celebrate your progress no matter how small. Every step forward counts.
These strategies take practice, but the more you use them, the more natural they become. Over time, you’ll start to recognize unhelpful patterns more easily and feel more capable of handling life’s challenges.
Sometimes, the simplest things can have the biggest impact on how we feel. Taking a moment each day to notice what you’re grateful for or doing something kind for someone else can lift your mood and help you focus on the positive.
Practicing gratitude and kindness helps shift your focus, making it easier to find joy even on tough days.
In today’s world, screens are everywhere from phones and laptops to TVs. But too much screen time, especially when it involves stressful or negative content, can take a real toll on your mental health.
To feel better, try setting aside tech-free zones or times, especially in the hour before bed. This helps your brain wind down and get ready for restful sleep.
Try to set aside some time each week for a hobby or creative outlet. It’s not about being perfect just enjoying the process and giving yourself a break from everyday stress.
Keep an eye out for signs such as changes in your sleep patterns, noticeable mood swings, feeling unmotivated, or shifts in appetite. These can all be signs that your mental health needs extra attention.
Taking care of your mental health is a daily journey. Small, intentional habits can bring big changes over time. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. By nurturing yourself and reaching out, you’re investing in a happier, healthier future.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions[FAQs]
What are simple daily habits to improve mental health?
Simple habits like prioritizing sleep, eating nutritious foods, regular exercise, practicing mindfulness, and staying socially connected can greatly improve mental well-being.How does exercise help mental health?
Exercise releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress. It also improves sleep and increases resilience against anxiety and depression.When should I seek professional help for mental health?
If symptoms like persistent low mood, sleep problems, or loss of interest last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s important to consult a mental health professional.Can diet really affect my mood?
Yes! Eating foods rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and probiotics supports brain function and emotional health, while excessive sugar and processed foods can negatively impact mood.
Prioritize Quality Sleep
The good news is that improving your sleep doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes can lead to big improvements.
Stick to a routine:-Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. Your body’s internal clock works best when it follows a steady rhythm. Cut screen time before bed:-ices like phones and laptops give off blue light that can confuse your brain and make it harder to fall asleep. The National Institute of Mental Health recommends turning off screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
Create a calming bedtime ritual:-Wind down with something relaxing. This could be a warm shower, light stretching, reading a book, or listening to soft music. Experts at Beautiful Mind Health Services suggest avoiding anything too stimulating before bed, like intense workouts or heavy meals.
Nourish Your Brain with Healthy Foods
Here are a few food choices that really make a difference:
Add omega-3 fats:- Foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and chia seeds are packed with healthy fats that support brain health and reduce inflammation.
Eat more whole grains and leafy greens:-Brown rice, oats, lentils, spinach, and kale help keep your energy steady and support brain function. Include probiotics:- Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods like kimchi or sauerkraut help balance gut bacteria, which is closely connected to your mood and emotional health. Caspian Care and Archway Behavioral Health highlight the importance of gut-brain connection for mental resilience. At the same time, try to cut back on highly processed foods. Refined carbohydrates, sugary snacks, and fizzy drinks may give you a quick energy spike, but they’re often followed by a crash in mood and focus.
We often think of exercise as something we do for our physical health, but it plays a huge role in how we feel emotionally too. Regular movement doesn’t just help your body stay strong it helps your mind stay balanced.
Here are a few simple ways to get moving:
Go for a walk:-A brisk 30 minute walk each day can do wonders for your mood. Even short 10-minute walks, a few times a day, can help if you're short on time.
Try movement that feels fun:- Not into traditional workouts? That’s okay. Activities like dancing around your room, doing yoga, or even gardening count too. Sapna Health and Archway Behavioral Health highlight that the best kind of exercise is the one you enjoy and can stick with.
Move with others:- Physical activity is also a great way to connect with people. Consider going on a walk with a friend, joining a fitness class, or starting a weekend hike group.
You don’t need to be an athlete or follow a strict routine. Just find what works for your lifestyle and your energy level. Whether it’s dancing, walking, stretching, or playing a sport, movement in any form is one of the most natural ways to take care of your mental health.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
meditation
( Image credit : Pixabay )
Mindfulness and meditation have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help people feel more grounded, calm, and resilient under stress.
Here’s how you can get started:
Start small:-Begin with just 5 to 10 minutes of deep breathing or a short guided meditation each day. You can find plenty of free meditation apps or videos online to help you ease into it.
Practice mindful eating:- Instead of rushing through meals, take time to really taste your food. Notice the texture, the flavors, and even the temperature.
Try body scans:- This is a simple technique where you slowly bring your attention to different parts of your body, from your toes to your head, noticing how each area feels. Archway Behavioral Health and Ketto.org recommend this practice for reducing tension and becoming more aware of where your body might be holding stress.
Pause and breathe:- Throughout your day, take little moments to pause, breathe deeply, and check in with yourself. Even a single deep breath can interrupt a spiral of anxious thoughts and help bring you back to center.
Mindfulness isn’t about having an empty mind or doing it perfectly. It’s about learning to sit with your thoughts and emotions with kindness and curiosity. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes and the calmer and more connected you’ll begin to feel.
Build a Supportive Network
socializing
( Image credit : Pixabay )
When you’re going through a tough time, talking to someone who really listens can make all the difference. Even on good days, staying socially connected gives you a sense of belonging, which helps you stay emotionally balanced and resilient.
Here are a few ways to strengthen your support system:
Make time for regular check-ins. Reach out to friends or family members, even just for a short chat. A quick phone call, a voice note, or grabbing coffee together can help maintain strong, healthy bonds.
Join a support group. Whether it’s peer-led or professionally guided, support groups either in person or online can be a safe space to share, listen, and feel understood. You don’t have to go through things alone, and hearing from others can offer new perspectives and comfort.
Engage in casual social moments. Connection doesn’t always have to be deep or emotional. Sometimes, chatting with a neighbor, joining a book club, or taking part in a group hobby can brighten your day and lift your mood.
Say yes more often. If you tend to isolate when you’re feeling low, try to gently push yourself to accept invitations or reach out first. It’s okay to start small.
Building a support network takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Surrounding yourself with positive, encouraging people creates a safety net that helps carry you through life’s ups and downs.
You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. The right people won’t just support your mental health they’ll remind you that you’re not alone, and that you matter.
Develop Healthy Coping Skills and CBT Techniques
One of the core ideas in CBT is that our thoughts influence how we feel. If we can learn to challenge negative thinking patterns and replace them with more balanced, realistic ones, we can change the way we respond to difficult situations.
Here are a few ways you can start applying these skills in everyday life:
Practice positive self talk:- Notice the way you speak to yourself, especially when something goes wrong. Instead of saying, “I always mess up,” try, “I made a mistake, but I’m learning.” Being kinder to yourself is powerful.
Challenge negative thoughts:-Ask yourself, “Is this thought really true?” or “What evidence do I have for and against it?” Shifting your mindset can help break the cycle of worry or self-doubt.
Try behavioral activation:- This technique encourages you to do things that bring you joy or a sense of purpose, even when you don’t feel like it. It could be as simple as going for a walk, calling a friend, or working on a hobby.
Add structure to your coping tools:-Make a habit of journaling to process your emotions, set small daily goals, and celebrate your progress no matter how small. Every step forward counts.
These strategies take practice, but the more you use them, the more natural they become. Over time, you’ll start to recognize unhelpful patterns more easily and feel more capable of handling life’s challenges.
Practice Gratitude and Kindness
Practicing gratitude and kindness helps shift your focus, making it easier to find joy even on tough days.
Limit Screen Time and Negative Media
To feel better, try setting aside tech-free zones or times, especially in the hour before bed. This helps your brain wind down and get ready for restful sleep.
Engage in Meaningful Activities and Hobbies
pottery
( Image credit : Pixabay )
Try to set aside some time each week for a hobby or creative outlet. It’s not about being perfect just enjoying the process and giving yourself a break from everyday stress.
Taking care of your mental health is a daily journey. Small, intentional habits can bring big changes over time. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. By nurturing yourself and reaching out, you’re investing in a happier, healthier future.
Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions[FAQs]
What are simple daily habits to improve mental health?
Simple habits like prioritizing sleep, eating nutritious foods, regular exercise, practicing mindfulness, and staying socially connected can greatly improve mental well-being.How does exercise help mental health?
Exercise releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress. It also improves sleep and increases resilience against anxiety and depression.When should I seek professional help for mental health?
If symptoms like persistent low mood, sleep problems, or loss of interest last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s important to consult a mental health professional.Can diet really affect my mood?
Yes! Eating foods rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and probiotics supports brain function and emotional health, while excessive sugar and processed foods can negatively impact mood.