Your mental well-being can affect things like memory and decision-making. On the other hand, anxiety and depression are often linked with mental decline. Engaging in brain-healthy lifestyle choices will boost mental health. Here are some tips to improve mental function, mood stability and overall well-being.

Look for activities you enjoy. Regularly doing something that makes you feel good, as simple as it sounds, is possibly the most important thing you can do for your mental well-being. So take that hike, splurge on your knitting supplies, or sign up for a choir or singing group. For more information on retirement hobbies, visit our Medicare Learning Center and check out Retirement Hobbies That Can Make You Money.

Seek out meaningful connections with others in your community. Get to know your neighbors. Meet your friends for a meal. Spend more time with family. Socializing has been linked to higher mental well-being.

Become a regular volunteer in the community. Those who volunteer tend to have less anxiety, depression, loneliness and social isolation, as well as a sense of purpose in life. Some ideas to consider for volunteer opportunities include food pantries, animal rescue shelters, libraries or local schools.

Get enough high-quality sleep. Maintain a regular schedule where your sleep/wake hours do not fluctuate, and avoid watching TV in bed. Also stay away from all digital screens before bedtime. Studies have found that the LED light emitted by digital screens may prevent the brain from releasing the sleep hormone melatonin, which helps your body know it’s time to sleep.

Eat healthy foods. Aim to eat a diet high in vegetables, fruits, unprocessed grains, fish and seafood, while only eating modest amounts of lean meats and dairy. Avoid foods made with processed and refined ingredients and sugars. Drink plenty of water and try to avoid sugary drinks.

Find opportunities to exercise, particularly outdoors. Explore green spaces in your neighborhood and community, including state and national parks. Also, try gardening. Digging in the dirt can be a great way to relieve stress, get exercise and promote mental well-being.