10 Things to never do for your mental health: Therapist approved 

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This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

Summary: Taking care of your mental health means avoiding habits that increase stress, isolation, and burnout. From neglecting emotions to overusing social media, these behaviours can quietly undermine your well-being. Making better weekend choices and seeking help when needed are key steps toward a balanced mind. Small daily changes and professional support can make a big impact on your mental wellness.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as maintaining your physical health, yet sometimes, we unintentionally make things difficult for ourselves. In today’s hectic world, it’s easy to fall into habits that might feel good at the moment but can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck over time. Let’s dive into 10 things you should avoid for our mental well-being—approved by therapists, naturally! These tips will help keep your mind in tip-top shape and guide you away from habits that can hinder your progress. 

What should you not do for mental health?

Good mental health relies on avoiding habits that heighten stress and emotional turmoil. Here’s what you should avoid concerning mental health: 

1. Disregarding your emotions: Bottling up feelings can escalate stress, anxiety, or depression.  Acknowledge and convey your emotions constructively. 
2. Withdrawing from others: Refrain from isolating yourself from friends and family. Emotional support is crucial for your well-being. 
3. Excessively stressing yourself: Taking on more work or responsibilities than you can handle can result in burnout. It’s important to establish boundaries and prioritise self-care. 
4. Leaning on harmful coping strategies: Avoid heavy drinking, drug use, or emotional eating as a way to handle stress. Such actions can exacerbate mental health issues. 
5. Neglecting sleep and physical fitness: Insufficient sleep, lack of exercise, and poor nutrition can adversely affect mood and mental strength. 
6. Avoiding professional assistance: If facing challenges, don’t hesitate to seek therapy or support. Overlooking mental health concerns can lead to them worsening over time. 
7. Continuously comparing yourself to others: Assessing your value based on the achievements of others can diminish self-esteem. Focus on your growth instead. 
8. Clinging to unhealthy relationships: Remaining in toxic relationships can sap your emotional energy. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals. 
9. Failing to take breaks: Overexerting yourself without pauses can lead to fatigue. Taking time for relaxation and personal interests is vital for mental health. 
10. Using social media excessively: Spending too much time online and being exposed to negative content can heighten anxiety and stress. Limit your usage and participate in offline pursuits. 

What Not to do on weekends?

Utilising your weekends wisely is essential for both mental and physical health. Here’s what not to do during weekends: 

1. Snoozing all day: Oversleeping can disrupt your sleep routine and leave you feeling sluggish instead of revitalised. 
2. Engaging in excessive work: Bringing office work home or worrying about tasks can lead to burnout. Weekends should involve rest and enjoyment. 
3. Neglecting self-care: Lack of exercise, eating poorly, or disregarding relaxation can leave you unprepared for the upcoming week. 
4. Wasting time on social media: Excessive scrolling can deplete your energy and detract from meaningful activities or real-life interactions. 
5. Staying indoors too much: Avoid staying indoors all weekend. Instead, step outside, enjoy the fresh air, and participate in physical activities. 
6. Taking on too many commitments: Filling up your schedule with numerous social events can leave you drained rather than rejuvenated. 
7. Completely avoiding household chores: Postponing all responsibilities can create chaos during the week. To maintain organisation, tackle manageable tasks. 
8. Neglecting family or personal time: Focus on nurturing relationships with loved ones instead of letting the weekend go by in distractions. 
9. Giving in to unhealthy habits: Overindulging, drinking too much, or binge-watching TV can result in feelings of sluggishness. 
10. Disregarding preparations for the upcoming week: A bit of planning—like meal prepping or arranging your schedule can set you up for a stress-free start to the new week. 

When and where to get help?

Seeking assistance at the appropriate time is vital for mental and physical health. Get help if you face ongoing stress, anxiety, depression, or struggle to manage daily life. Consult a professional if your symptoms impact work, relationships, or sleep. In critical situations, such as suicidal thoughts or extreme distress, seek immediate help from crisis hotlines or emergency services. Help is accessible at hospitals, clinics, mental health facilities, and online therapy services. Telehealth options provide convenient access to licensed professionals from the comfort of your home. Support groups and community organisations also offer assistance. If uncertain about where to begin, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or primary care doctor. Early intervention enhances outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek support when necessary. 

In summary, your mental health deserves the best care, and avoiding these common mistakes can make a big difference. Focusing on your habits and implementing small, positive changes can lead you to a healthier and happier mindset. Keep in mind that balance is key, and some guidance from a therapist can be incredibly helpful!

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