Prioritizing your mental health doesn’t need to be a dramatic overnight transformation. it’s crucial to explore your current habits and look for easy ways to improve them, says Dr. Vanessa Kennedy, Ph.D., the director of psychology at Driftwood Recovery. A few key areas to think about include: Exercise habits:  “There is solid research that suggests that aerobic exercise 4-5 times a week is beneficial for depression,” Dr. Kennedy says. Meditation and mindfulness habits:  “When you’re going through a stressful time, there are a multitude of mindfulness and meditation apps that help with anxiety if you’re willing to put them in your schedule and make them a consistent practice,” she notes. Journaling habits: “Keeping a journal can help you organize your thoughts and practice gratitude more concretely and tangibly,” she adds. Eating habits:  You know how the saying goes — you are what you eat — and if you’re consistently consuming high-fat and empty-carb foods, you will experience rises and drops in your blood sugar. A balanced diet of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats will boost your brain health.

Over the past several years, virtual therapy has skyrocketed in popularity. This is a big win for those struggling with mental health since it takes away the stress of scheduling a commute to a therapist’s office or finding someone nearby. As Oliver-Pyatt says, there are plenty of online therapy apps to choose from, although you’ll want to make sure they accept your insurance before committing to one. “Many insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, have expanded their coverage to include virtual treatment. Additionally, in the wake of COVID-19, many therapists are now offering video sessions, making it easier to find a regular appointment time that may work for you,” she adds.