Recent Posts
A Counsellor’s Response to Channel 4’s The Great ADHD Myth?
I didn’t want to write another blog about ADHD so soon after my last one, but the Channel 4 documentary -
August 28, 2026, 2:29 pm
Women’s Mental Health: What about hormones?
Picture by LugiL – Deviant art
I had the pleasure of watching Dr Louise Newsome on stage talking about the impact of hormonal imbalance at the
August 3, 2026, 3:39 pm
Why Workplaces Can Be Toxic for Neurodiverse People: The Challenges of “Fitting In”
The AI picture of me is how a corporate Elaine should look apparently. It doesn’t look or feel like me, in fact it’s uncomfortable to look at. But it’s what I tried to be for a couple of decades , always wondering why I...
June 2, 2026, 9:59 am
A healthy mental state can be the key to success in any aspect of life. When you’re in a good mood, you feel more energetic and motivated to get things done, so how can you stay positive? Below are nine outside-the-box ways to boost your mood and promote good mental health.
1. Create Electronic Music
You don’t need a doctorate in audio engineering or access to top-of-the-line studio equipment. You can use free software, so why not give it a shot? You’ll be surprised by how satisfying creating electronic music can be.
2. Try Supplements
Certain supplements can improve mood and help reduce anxiety, stress, and other conditions. Examples include omega-3s, magnesium, and certain amino acids.
3. Consider Forest Bathing
If you’re feeling stressed or down, a trip into nature may be what you need. Forest bathing — or being surrounded by trees and green plants — can help ease depression symptoms. Exposure to natural environments triggers antidepressant effects in people due to phytoncide (natural compounds) in trees.
4. Do Something Creative
One of the most effective ways to boost your mood is by doing something creative, whether it’s drawing, playing music, cooking, or crafting. Take a class at a local art gallery or museum; if you don’t have time for a class (or you live in an area that doesn’t offer them), try an online art course. Creating something can be very therapeutic.
5. Learn a Martial Art
Martial arts is an effective way to stay fit and help relieve stress. Kung fu, tae kwon do, aikido, capoeira, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are excellent options. The rigor of training invigorates you and helps to develop discipline. You’ll also gain confidence through learning self-defense.
6. Learn New Recipes
Taking a cooking class and attempting new recipes is a fun way to boost your mood. And who doesn’t love delicious food? Not only are you improving your health, but you’re learning a new skill set and enjoying yourself in the process.
7. Meditate
Try a meditation practice. Meditation boosts mental health and increases focus, creativity, and happiness. Plus, it’s free. Give it a shot. And if you find yourself struggling with even just 5 minutes a day, some apps can help guide your practice or keep you on track.
8. Clear Your Home
People who live in clean, organized, and decluttered homes have more positive and healthy minds. A tidy house promotes stress-free living and better relationships. It's best to address issues now for overall peace of mind.
9. Start Your Own Nonprofit
Helping others gives a sense of fulfillment. Help others by starting your own charity organization. To set up a UK nonprofit, choose a name and structure, create a governing document, and register your charity.
Improving Your Mental Health
There are many ways to improve your mental health. Try a few of these hacks like decluttering, meditating, and learning something new, and see what works for you.