Learn Ways to Reduce Stress: Self-Care Tips for Mental and Emotional Wellness
Posted on March 27, 2026
Self-care is all over social media, but the concept is often misunderstood. You may think it means taking luxurious bubble baths or getting pampered at the spa. Sure, these can be part of your self-care routine. But at its core, selfcare—the regular steps you take to nurture your mental and emotional health—is so much more than that.
Why is self-care important? Sometimes it may feel impossible to keep up with the demands of life and it can be easy to neglect yourself, but over time, this may:
- Spike your stress, and make you feel exhausted and overwhelmed
- Increase your risk for anxiety and depression
- Negatively affect your relationships, and damage your physical health
Regular self-care helps you boost your mental and emotional well-being—
try these strategies to start:
- Get quality sleep. Most adults need seven or more hours each night.
- Exercise daily. Aim for 30 minutes, and mix up your routine.
- Eat mood-boosting foods. Make sure your diet includes things like nuts;
dark, leafy greens; beans; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fatty fish. - Just breathe. Deep breathing exercises or yoga can help you unwind.
- Get back to nature. Whether you’re hiking in the wilderness or walking through
a city park, being outdoors in nature is a tried-and-true way to feel better. - Volunteer. You’ll feel good when you help a cause you believe in.
- See a friend. Face-to-face contact helps you feel less alone.
- Start a daily gratitude habit. Jot down or reflect on everything you’re grateful for.
- Sign up for the WebMD ONE® Healthy Directions portal. Find wellness info and more at webmdhealth.com/hne.
If you have mental health concerns, a great place to start is with your primary care provider (PCP). They can offer an initial depression screening and refer you to a mental health specialist.
Reminder: As a member, you have Behavioral Health coverage, which includes mental health and
substance use disorder. For help finding an mental health provider, please call our Member Services
team toll-free at (877) 443-3314 (TTY: 711) or search our Provider
Directory at healthnewengland.org/medicare/provider.
Sources: American Psychological Association; HelpGuide; Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration
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