The brain spring clean

How can you build a healthier mind? The approach is two-pronged: first examine your relationship with yourself, and then with others.  

1. Build confidence

Brainstorm your strengths and weaknesses, accept them, build on them and do the best with what you have.  

2. Accept compliments

Accepting kindness from others can be hard, but embrace compliments when they come your way (they are useful to draw on when times get tough).  

3. Make time for family and friends

Nurture the relationships that matter. Create a list of friends that have a positive effect on your life and make an effort to spend more time with them.  

4. Give and accept support

If and when you need it, lean on your friends and family for support. This will deepen your relationships and give you a better framework for coping during difficult times.  

5. Create a budget

Financial problems are a classic trigger for stress, so work out what you can afford to spend each week, fortnight or month and stick to it.  

6. Volunteer

Becoming involved in the community offers a sense of purpose and satisfaction that paid work can't match. Find an activity you enjoy and seek out work in that area.  

7. Manage Stress

Think constructively about how to best deal with the stressors in your life. For example, if you're taking on too much, learn to say no; if you're getting sick easily, seek advice on strengthening your immune system.  

8. Love the skin you're in

Get to know who you are, what makes you happy, and learn to accept what you can and cannot change about yourself.