Simple Habits, Big Impact: Study Reveals Keys to Mental Wellness
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Simple, everyday behaviours such as chatting with friends, spending time outdoors, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can significantly enhance mental health, according to new research published in the British Journal of SSM-Mental Health. The study surveyed over 600 adults and found that regular participation in low-cost, accessible activities was strongly associated with improved mental well-being.
According to the findings, individuals who engaged in daily conversations with others scored 10 points higher on a standard mental well-being scale than those who rarely interacted socially. Daily exposure to nature was associated with a five-point increase. Other activities such as regular social catchups, physical activity, spiritual practice, and acts of kindness also contributed to higher levels of mental wellness.
The research assessed 15 behaviours and found a consistent correlation between frequency of participation and improved mental well-being. Public awareness of the mental health campaign that promoted these behaviours was notably high, with 86 percent of participants recognising it. Nearly all agreed that mental health deserves the same prioritisation as physical health.
“These aren't expensive programmes or clinical interventions -- they're behaviours that are already part of many people's lives and can be easily encouraged through public health messaging,” said lead researcher Professor Christina Pollard. “Regular connection with others, even a daily chat, can make a measurable difference to how people feel. Similarly, spending time outdoors or doing something that requires thinking and concentrating, like doing crosswords, reading, or learning a new language, provides an important mental reset.”
“This research confirms that when people are supported and encouraged to engage in mentally healthy behaviours, the benefits can be felt across the community,” Professor Pollard stated. “It's about prevention, not just treatment -- helping people stay mentally well before they reach crisis point.”
The findings reinforce the importance of sustained community-level investment in preventive mental health strategies that move beyond awareness to practical engagement.
Reference: Pollard, C. M., Alati, R., Lawrence, D., Clary, M., Walton, A., Dunne, J., ... & Millar, L. (2025). The association between participation in mental health protective behaviours and mental well-being: cross sectional survey among Western Australian adults. SSM-Mental Health, 100441.
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