5 Simple Mental Health Habits You Can Start Today

You don't need a complete life overhaul to improve your mental health. Small, consistent habits — practiced daily — can create meaningful change over time. Here are five evidence-based practices you can start today, no matter how busy you are.

1. Check in with yourself

Take 60 seconds each morning to ask: "How am I feeling right now?" Don't judge the answer — just notice it. This simple act of self-awareness has been shown to improve emotional regulation throughout the day. Apps like Yomeet are built around this concept — understanding your mood is the first step to getting the right support.

2. Talk to one person meaningfully

Not a quick "hey" or a social media like — an actual conversation. Ask someone how they're really doing. Share something honest about your own day. Even a 5-minute genuine exchange with another person can significantly reduce stress and increase feelings of belonging. If no one comes to mind, Yomeet can match you with someone based on your mood.

3. Move for 20 minutes

Exercise is one of the most powerful and underused mental health interventions. A 2023 meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that physical activity was 1.5 times more effective than medication for reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and distress. You don't need a gym — a walk, stretching, or dancing in your living room all count.

4. Limit doomscrolling

Social media and news feeds are designed to capture your attention — not protect your mental health. Set a daily time limit for social media use. Replace 15 minutes of scrolling with something that actually fills you up: reading, creating, or having a real conversation. The difference compounds quickly.

5. End your day with gratitude

Before bed, name three things that went well today — no matter how small. This practice, studied extensively by positive psychologist Martin Seligman, has been shown to increase happiness and reduce depressive symptoms within just two weeks. Write them down or say them out loud. Over time, your brain starts naturally scanning for positive experiences throughout the day.

Consistency beats intensity

The most effective mental health habit is the one you actually do. Start with just one of these five practices. Do it for a week. Then add another. Small steps, repeated daily, create lasting change. And on days when it's hard, remember: support is always available — whether from a friend, a peer on Yomeet, or Kora AI at any hour.