Here are five simple practices to protect your mental health daily

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World Mental Health Day is celebrated annually on October 10 to raise awareness about mental health issues and to mobilise efforts in support of mental well-being. But it is important to care for one's mental wellbeing year-round. Small acts of daily self-care can significantly improve mental health, manage stress, lower the risk of illness, and increase energy. Here are five simple steps to protect your mental health daily:

Get regular exercise: Exercising or being physically active improves both mood and health. Even 30 minutes of any physical activity can improve your mental health significantly. You can choose any activity, whether it's walking, running or dancing. When you think you are not in the right headspace, just go for a walk. If 30 minutes feels like a big goal, start with a small amount and gradually increase.

Connect with someone you trust: Often sharing how you feel with someone you trust can help one feel better. You can connect with a friend, family member, colleague or anyone who can make you feel heard and safe. You can either have a face-to-face interaction, or if that option isn't available, opt for a voice or video call.

Eat healthy food and stay hydrated: A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve mental health on a daily basis. With the current lifestyle changes, it is necessary to make it a point to have homemade and healthy meals to improve energy and focus throughout the day. Additionally, decreasing your caffeine or alcohol intake can be helpful.

Get enough sleep: Getting 6-7 hours of sleep at night can improve mental health. Sleeping well at night will make you feel refreshed and provide energy to get through the day without mental or physical burnout. It is also advisable to avoid using any electronic devices or blue light exposure an hour before going to bed.

Taking two minutes to focus on the world around you: If you often feel anxious or keep getting stuck on the same negative thoughts over and over again, then take two minutes to focus on the world and divert your mind from those thoughts. Just take a deep breath in counts of 4, hold and release. Repeat this 2-3 times. Now name three things you see around you. This makes your body alert and realise that it is in a safe environment.

These simple practices can help you protect your mental health daily; however, it is also important to seek professional help when you feel like you cannot cope with stress.