Well-being

Mental Wellbeing: Understanding and Nurturing It

Mental wellbeing is a dynamic and deeply personal experience—it doesn’t mean being happy all the time or never facing difficulties.
Rather, it reflects how we navigate life’s ups and downs, finding balance even in challenging moments. Some people may struggle with mental health yet maintain good wellbeing, while others may not face mental health challenges but still feel unfulfilled.

Taking care of our wellbeing is a conscious choice, but it’s not always easy. It requires self-awareness, patience, and a willingness to explore what truly nurtures us. Before diving into practical tips, remember: there is no universal formula for wellbeing. Your path is unique, and what works for someone else might not be right for you. The key is to respect your own pace, take small steps, and allow yourself the flexibility to discover what feels right.

Understand how we feel

Mental wellbeing doesn’t have one set meaning; usually, we use it to express how we feel and how we are coping with our daily life. It does not mean that we are always happy, nor that we are unaffected by difficulties. In fact, we can experience difficulties or struggle with our mental health and yet maintain good wellbeing. Similarly, we might not struggle with our mental health but still not have good wellbeing.
Looking after our wellbeing is ultimately a choice—it means making room to be well despite the adversities or difficulties we are facing.

Practicing Self-Compassion

That said, it may not be easy to take care of our wellbeing for numerous reasons. So, before looking at some useful tips together, here is what may be good to remind ourselves of:

• Be kind to yourself when figuring out what makes you feel good: “One size doesn’t fit all!” What works best for someone else might not work for you!
• Respect your own pace. You don’t have to figure it out right away! There is no rush! Like everything in life, this takes time too.
• Take one step at a time. Break down steps into smaller ones if you feel they are too challenging.
• Try what you feel comfortable with—it’s your path!
• There is no right or wrong, only what feels right to you at this moment in life.

Practical Tips for Improving Your Mental Wellbeing

1. Connect with your values

   Values are the compass that guides our direction and gives meaning to our lives.
Take your time to explore which values you haven’t been fully successful in living by, and reflect on how you can adjust your daily behaviors accordingly.

2. Practice self-compassion (which is not self-pity!)

   Be kind to yourself. Remember that you are a human being and, as such, you’re likely to experience difficulties and uncertainties—it’s part of the human experience! Try to refrain from being judgmental or overly self-critical.

3. Do what brings you happiness or joy
   
This could mean walking in nature, dedicating time to skincare, reconnecting with an old friend, or taking yourself out for a nice meal.

4. Be mindful and focus on the present

   When feeling overwhelmed or caught up in worrisome thoughts, try shifting your attention to the present moment and your senses—for example, when making coffee or eating something tasty.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Mental Wellbeing

Building mental wellbeing is an ongoing process, but simple daily habits can make a big difference:

• Reconnect with Your Values
  Identify what truly matters to you and make small adjustments to align your actions with those values.
• Practice Self-Compassion
  Treat yourself with kindness, especially during difficult moments. Acknowledge that challenges are part of being human.
• Engage in Joyful Activities
  Whether it’s a walk in nature, reading a book, or sharing a meal with a friend, prioritize activities that bring you fulfillment.
• Stay Present
  When overwhelmed, focus on the here and now. Pay attention to your senses—whether it’s the aroma of your coffee or the feel of the sun on your skin.

There is no “right” way to achieve wellbeing—only what feels right for you in this moment.
By taking small, mindful steps, you can create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling.