How to Maintain Positive Mental Health:
10 Helpful Tips for a Happier Life

1. Prioritize Self-Care for Better Mental Health

Taking care of your body positively impacts your mind.

• Why it helps: Exercise releases mood-boosting endorphins, while proper sleep and nutrition regulate stress and emotions.
• What you can do:
  • Get 7–9 hours of sleep nightly.
  • Explore outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, or biking.
  • Pack healthy snacks inspired by Texas flavors.

2. Manage Stress Wisely

Stress is part of life, but managing it effectively can transform how it affects you.

• Why it helps: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques reduce cortisol, improving emotional resilience.
• What you can do:
  • Practice deep breathing or use meditation apps like Calm.
  • Plan a stress-free day trip using the Jolly Outlaw Road Trip Planner.
  • Visit peaceful locations, like serene lakes.

3. Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Strong relationships improve mental health and foster a sense of belonging.

• Why it helps: Social connections lower the risk of depression and increase feelings of support.
• What you can do:
  • Schedule a group hike or picnic using our guide to Texas trails.
  • Reflect on past adventures with loved ones or plan a new one together with inspiration from our family-friendly activities guide.
  • Share your stories with a community passionate about adventure—coming soon on the Outlaw Community Forum.

4. Build Resilience to Handle Life’s Challenges

Resilience helps you bounce back from adversity stronger than before.

• Why it helps: It reduces stress and increases overall satisfaction.
• What you can do:
  • Reflect on your own growth by visiting historic landmarks, like the Alamo.
  • Challenge yourself with outdoor goals, such as tackling a moderate hiking trail.
  • Use resources like our adventure checklist.

5. Seek Help When Needed

Sometimes, we all need a little extra support.

• Why it helps: Therapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has a high success rate in treating depression and anxiety.
• What you can do:
  • Look into mental health retreats in Texas, like spa getaways.
  • Spend time in tranquil spots, such as Caddo Lake.
  • If you’re in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

6. Limit Negative Influences

What you consume and who you surround yourself with shapes your mindset.

• Why it helps: Limiting negative inputs reduces anxiety and boosts self-esteem.
• What you can do:
  • Reduce screen time and engage with nature. Plan an unplugged trip using our Digital Detox Challenge.
  • Visit grounding locations like Enchanted Rock.
  • Spend time journaling or meditating during quiet outdoor moments.

7. Create a Healthy Environment

Your environment directly affects your mental health.

• Why it helps: Organized spaces and time in nature reduce stress and promote calm.
• What you can do:
  • Declutter your home with inspiration from Outlaw Spaces.
  • Bring Texas’ beauty indoors with simple decor inspired by landscapes you love.
  • Visit soothing outdoor spots, like Texas rivers.

8. Embrace a Growth Mindset

Believing in your ability to grow fosters resilience and happiness.

• Why it helps: Studies show that a growth mindset improves motivation and adaptability.
• What you can do:
  • Set goals to visit all seven regions of Texas.
  • Learn a new outdoor skill, like fly fishing.
  • Reflect on milestones and celebrate your progress—every step counts.

9. Practice Gratitude Every Day

Gratitude shifts your focus to the positives in life.

• Why it helps: Practicing gratitude reduces symptoms of depression and increases life satisfaction.
• What you can do:
  • Keep a gratitude journal inspired by your travels—try prompts in our Gratitude Guide.
  • Share moments of gratitude with those who make your adventures special.
  • Reflect on the beauty of locations like Big Bend National Park.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Self-compassion is critical for mental health.

• Why it helps: Accepting your emotions fosters resilience and emotional growth.
• What you can do:
  • Plan a quiet weekend escape to a peaceful Texas retreat.
  • Recharge with a simple stargazing night in your backyard or during a camping trip.
  • Focus on progress, not perfection, in every journey.

For Those Who Are Struggling

If maintaining positive mental health feels out of reach, help is available. Mental health challenges are common, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text: 988
Visit: befrienders.org for international resources.

Take the first step today—whether it’s going for a walk, journaling your thoughts, or planning an adventure. Your journey to better mental health starts now, and it’s worth every step.