The Mental Health Basics We Were Never Taught

Let’s be real. We weren’t taught about mental health. Neither were our parents, or their parents for that matter. It’s only in the last decade or two that mental health has really entered the mainstream conversation — and for me, learning about it has been life changing.

I often talk about the deeper concepts: recognizing and healing our trauma, practicing self-reflection, and learning to set healthy boundaries.

But today, I want to go back to the basics.

Even if we did none of the things above and only focused on the following, I believe it would have a significant impact. It’s a great place to start. So, if you’re ready to begin somewhere, here are three mental health practices I believe everyone can benefit from:

1. Start With the Body

Why am I talking about the body in a blog about mental health?

Because the mind affects the body — have you ever felt mental stress show up as tension, a stomachache, or even a headache?

And the body affects the mind — have you ever felt so much better after a workout or even a short walk?

Exactly.

So get moving in a way that works for you. Find an activity you can actually commit to and do it consistently. Take a yoga, dance, or other exercise class. Go for after-dinner walks. Or commit to stretching before bed. It doesn’t matter what you choose. Just move - with the intention of feeling good in your body, not changing how it looks.

2. Focus On the Mind

This may sound obvious, but that’s just it. We often assume that once our mental health “gets better,” our state of mind will follow. But that’s putting the cart before the horse. Instead, what if we actively focused on our mindset and noticed how it shaped our overall mental health?

• Pay attention to what your mind consumes. Do you watch anxiety-inducing TV? Scroll through negative news? Are the people you spend time with optimists or pessimists? This all matters.

• Nourish your mind. Do you spend your time learning new things, trying new skills, and focusing on growth — or are you staying stagnant?

• Practice mental hygiene. Just like brushing your teeth, give your mind daily care. Journaling, meditation, gratitude, or simply unplugging can all clear out the “mental clutter” and create space for calm.

To be clear: I know there’s so much that goes into a person’s mental health. I’m not saying we can think our way out of depression or anxiety. What I am saying is that the small, daily things matter.

-Plant the seeds you want to grow.
-Nourish your mind with things that make you want to thrive.
-Speak kindly to yourself.
-Become conscious of the thoughts that run through your mind.
Without these intentions, you’re not giving yourself a fighting chance.

3. Build Genuine Connections

Many of us were taught to live lone-wolf lives. We were told that strength means not burdening anyone with our “stuff.” So what happens? We isolate ourselves when we’re going through tough times. But in reality, that only reinforces the cycle — our friendships and closest relationships stay surface-level, and we miss out on the support we truly need.

Connection reduces isolation. Simply talking through struggles, laughing with someone, or even just sitting in their presence reminds us we’re not alone.

Healthy relationships mirror back our growth. The right people will encourage you, hold you accountable, and reflect the best parts of you when you forget them.

Vulnerability creates depth. When we open up honestly, even just a little, it gives others permission to do the same — and that’s where real trust and closeness are built.

Community is healing. Whether it’s family, friends, or a support group, belonging somewhere makes challenges easier to face and joys more meaningful to celebrate.

The basics matter!

When we move our bodies, tend to our minds, and build real connections, we give ourselves the foundation to thrive. And that foundation makes space for the deeper healing work to actually take root.

If this resonated with you, I’d love to keep the conversation going. In my latest post on Instagram, I share more about the mind-body connection — come join in and let me know what has had the biggest impact on your mental health!

Take care of yourself,

💜Sara