As a weary world recently welcomed the arrival of Daylight Saving Time, the return of longer days has reminded me of how much an increase in sunlight improves my mood. This checks out scientifically, of course – days with plenty of sunshine are associated with better mental health. In fact, the availability of sunshine has been shown to have more impact on mood than any other environmental factor!
Although fun facts such as this one might make for a great Tweet, mental health discussions often center around the treatment of mental health rather than its natural supports. So, this spring, here are a few natural, evidence-based supports that can help you intentionally nurture your mental health.
Exercise
One such natural mental health support is exercise.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness-based strategies are being increasingly relied upon in improving mental health. Jon Kabat Zinn, known for his work on mindfulness, defines mindfulness as “the awareness that arises from paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgmentally.”
Nutrition
Although much research has been done on the connection between nutrition and physical health, it is only in recent years that research has begun to focus on the role nutrition plays in mental health.
While the above supports are certainly not “cure-alls” or replacements for any type of mental healthcare, they can be great complements to your day-to-day routine.
If you would like additional support as we go into spring, please call us at 615-591-5262.
[1] Schuch, F. B., & Stubbs, B. (2019). The role of exercise in preventing and treating depression. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 18(8), 299–304. https://doi.org/10.1249/jsr.0000000000000620
[2] Mammen, G., & Faulkner, G. (2013). Physical activity and the prevention of depression. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 45(5), 649–657. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2013.08.001
[3] Fuchs, C. H., Haradhvala, N., Evans, D. R., Nash, J. M., Weisberg, R. B., & Uebelacker, L. A. (2016). Implementation of an acceptance- and mindfulness-based group for depression and anxiety in primary care: Initial outcomes. Families, Systems, & Health, 34(4), 386– 395. https://doi.org/10.1037/fsh0000237
[4] Hofmann, S. G., Sawyer, A. T., Witt, A. A., & Oh, D. (2010). The effect of mindfulness-based therapy on anxiety and depression: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(2), 169–183. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0018555
[5] Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., Jaremka, L. M., & Hughes, S. (2014). Psychiatry and social nutritional neuroscience. World Psychiatry, 13(2), 151–152. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20127
[6] Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., Jaremka, L. M., & Hughes, S. (2014). Psychiatry and social nutritional
neuroscience. World Psychiatry, 13(2), 151–152. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20127
Blog written by Master’s Level Intern, Kate Moody