The document provides 10 tips for maintaining good mental health as outlined by Hafiz Junaid. The tips include developing self-esteem, eating well, exercising regularly, managing stress, enjoying the present, finding a work-life balance, getting enough sleep, developing relationships, having fun, and getting help if needed. Following these tips can help people take care of their mental health as seriously as their physical health.

1. 10-TIPS TO MAINTAIN
GOOD MENTAL HEALTH
BY HAFIZ JUNAID

2. • Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your
physical health. Here are a few tips to help you maintain a good mental state.

3. • 1. Develop a good opinion of yourself.
• According to mental health experts, high self-esteem is the best tool we can use
against difficulties in life. Studies show that people with high self-esteem have more
confidence in themselves and their capabilities.
• 2. Eat well.
• Diet plays a crucial role in mental health; it’s important to have a healthy diet. If you
need help with this, consult the Canadian Food Guide. You can also consult a
nutritionist for a personalized guide adapted to your needs.

4. • 3. Exercise regularly.
• Physical exercise plays a positive role in your mental health. It causes chemical
reactions that are proven to reduce anxiety and stress and put you in a good mood.
• 4. Learn how to manage stress.
• Stress is part of life, so you must learn how to deal with it in order to keep your
sanity. Discover the source of your stress to find ways to better handle it.

5. • 5. Enjoy the present.
• Learn how to focus on the present rather than being preoccupied with past or future
events. This will help you savor life’s little pleasures that you would otherwise miss.
• 6. Find your work-life balance.
• If you feel like you’re spending too much time and energy on one part of your life,
your work-life balance may be off. Learn to do both! The best way to do this varies
from a person to another. Find the strategy that works best for you.

6. • 7. Get enough sleep.
• Lack of sleep affects your mental health as it can cause emotional and psychological
problems. Go to bed at a reasonable hour and try to get 8 hours of sleep. It will help
you achieve maximum recovery and face the next day with more vigor.
• 8. Develop relationships.
• Developing and maintaining solid personal relationships is very beneficial to your
mental health. So work on establishing good relationships with people around you, at
home, at work or in your community. These contacts will enrich your life and
provide you with great support.

7. • 9. Have fun!
• Taking time to laugh and have fun will go a long way in staying mentally healthy.
Laughter lifts moral, keeps you in a good mood and releases stress. Find ways to
laugh: comic strips, funny videos or joking with friends.
• 10. Get help if you need it.
• At some point in your life, you may need to ask for help. If so, don’t hesitate! It takes
courage to seek help but it can really change your life. Know that there are many
resources out there. Talk to your pharmacist. He will guide you in finding the best
options.