Home >  Psychiatry MDTV >  Psychiatry Shorts >  Simple Habits, Big...

Simple Habits, Big Impact: Study Reveals Keys to Mental Wellness

By - Dr. Bhumika Maikhuri
Published On 2025-05-07 02:30 GMT   |   Update On 2025-05-07 02:30 GMT
Advertisement
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.
Advertisement
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.
Full View
Tags:    
Article Source : British Journal of SSM-Mental Health

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Dr. Bhumika Maikhuri

Dr Bhumika Maikhuri is an orthodontist with 2 years of clinical experience. She is also working as a medical writer and anchor at Medical Dialogues. She has completed her BDS from Dr D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital and MDS from Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences. She has a few publications and patents to her credit. Her diverse background in clinical dentistry and academic research uniquely positions her to contribute meaningfully to our team.

Comments Policy
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News

Too Much or Too Little Sleep Leads to Increased Risk of Mortality: Study Finds

Could Your Sensitivity Be Affecting Your Mental Health? Study Finds Out

After How Long Is Dementia Usually Diagnosed? Study Provides Crucial Insights

Could Smoking and Vaping Be Making Teen Mental Health Worse? Study Sheds Light

Study Reveals How Green Spaces May Protect Children Against ADHD and Autism

This Combination May Speed Up Memory Decline in Older Adults: Study Finds

Too Young for Screen? Early Smartphone Use May be Tied to Suicidal Thoughts, Aggression, Study Suggests

Heart Healthy Habits May Shield You from Cancer, Dementia, Diabetes and More: Study