Healthy Minds > Mood Boosters > 12 positive steps

12 positive steps

All of us feel anxious, stressed or low from time to time.  Doing something positive to help yourself can make a real difference to your mood, so read our twelve positive steps, and try some of them today!

1. Get active – and feel good
   Exercise is great for wellbeing – it improves your physical health, gives you more energy and can even improve your mood!  Pick a sport or activity you enjoy – why not try dancing, swimming, hiking or horse-riding for something different?  Check out our page on alternatives to the gym for some more fun ways to get active.
2. Accept yourself
   It’s easy to be down on yourself and self-critical when you’re feeling low.  Why not try being kinder to yourself?  Remind yourself of all your positive qualities, if you’re feeling down.
3. Be creative
   Boost your mood by getting in touch with your creative side!  Creative activities like painting, drawing or playing an instrument are absorbing and relaxing – and can even help you forget your worries for a while.  Check out our creative ideas page for more inspiration!
4. Try something new
   Why not take up a hobby or learn a skill, like learning a new language, yoga classes or tai chi?  Learning something new stimulates your mind, boosts your confidence and can give you a new interest in life – and you might meet new people, too!
5. Get out there!
   Feeling isolated can increase feelings of depression or low self-confidence.  Help yourself by making an effort to enjoy the social scene a bit more.  Getting involved in group activities can take your mind off your worries, and other people can be a great source of support.  Discover more with our guide to getting confident and enjoying socialising.
6. Chill out and unwind
   If your life is hectic, it can be hard to relax – so why not set aside even half an hour a day to unwind and do something you really enjoy, like reading or listening to music?  Looking forward to your ‘relaxing time’ every day can really boost your mood!  Read our page on tackling tension for more information.
7. Eat good mood food
   What you put in your mouth can dramatically influence your mood!  Cutting back on sugar and refined carbs and eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, lean meat, wholegrains and oily fish will give you more energy, boost your concentration and increase your mental wellbeing.  Check out our pages on healthy snacks and mood-enhancing foods for more top tips.
8. Get a little help
   It’s OK to ask for help if you’re stressed – chat to a close friend, family member, or even a support group if you need extra help.  Visit our Support section for more help and advice.
9. Talk it out
   If you’re feeling low and overwhelmed by things, don’t be afraid to talk to someone.  Helplines such as the Samaritans can be a great source of support if you feel you can’t talk to anyone close to you.
10. Drink sensibly
    Many people take a drink to help them unwind – but did you know alcohol can be a depressant?  Try to drink in moderation, drinking no more than 2-3 units a day for women and 3-4 units a day for men.  You can enjoy yourself, drink responsibly – and still take care of your health and wellbeing.  Read more in our page on drink awareness.
11. Go easy on yourself
    If you’re having a difficult time, go easy on yourself – don’t load yourself down with demands and expectations.  It’s easy to be self-critical – why not focus instead on praising yourself for the positive things you’ve done?
12. Keep in touch
    Friends can be a great support when you’re low – make an effort to keep in touch, whether through a quick phone call, a friendly email or even a visit!

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