We all have bad behaviors sometimes that can negatively impact how we feel or our mood. When those behaviors become habitual, however, it can cause some real harm to our mental, emotional, and even physical health. The following guide explains 7 things that are harming your well-being.
Not Getting Enough Sleep
Most of us don’t get enough sleep at night. Unfortunately, not sleeping enough can negatively affect your sleep, especially in the long run. Not getting enough sleep can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, irritability, and exhaustion. More extreme cases of not getting enough sleep come with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. The average adult needs around 7 hours of sleep a night to feel well-rested and healthy.
Not Eating Enough Fruits and Vegetables
Too many people don’t have enough fruits and vegetables in their diets. When you aren’t getting the recommended amounts of fruits and veggies, you are likely replacing them with less nutritious foods that are high in carbs, fat, or sugars. Not including plenty of fruits and veggies could lead to weight gain, digestive issues, and possibly nutrient deficiencies.
Eating a diet with enough fruits and vegetables will make you feel better and have less risk of health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
Not Drinking Enough Water
By now we all know how important it is to drink plenty of water. Still, many of us don’t drink the daily recommended amount, leaving us dehydrated. Not drinking enough water could lead to constipation, fatigue, dehydration, and dry and dull skin. Adults should drink at least a half-gallon of water daily to keep their bodies functioning and feeling good.
Using Social Media Too Much
Social media may seem like a fun pastime, but it can negatively affect your health if it is overused. Most of us have a bad habit of spending too much time on social media apps. We end up spending more time scrolling instead of engaging with others or having positive experiences in real life. Social media overuse can cause us to procrastinate on doing things we need to be doing, also.
Overuse of social media can worsen symptoms of depression, and anxiety, especially if we are seeing and reading a lot of negative things online. Try to set daily limits for yourself to cut back on how much time you are spending on social media apps.
Not Getting Enough Exercise
Regular exercise is important for your physical health. It keeps your body feeling well and is good for your heart and maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise is also good for your mental health. Try going for a brisk 20-30 minute walk three times per week for starters; you can increase the time and frequency as you go. Even a little exercise is better than none at all, so do what you can as you are able.
Too Many Negative Thoughts
Are you constantly bombarded with intrusive and negative thoughts? Constant negative thinking can be bad for your mental health. Being more aware of your thinking patterns can help you change your thought process. Try daily meditation, or if you become overwhelmed, try some grounding exercises. A relaxing treatment like a personal massage can also help ease stress and anxiety from too many negative thoughts.
Visit the Wellness Center of Plymouth for more information about well-being and our helpful health and wellness service. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
