psychohygiene

Psychohygiene, or psychological hygiene, refers to routines and practices aimed at preserving mental well-being and reducing the risk of emotional distress. It emphasizes proactive self-care and resilience, rather than treatment of a defined disorder. The term highlights the everyday maintenance of mental health through habits, environment, and coping skills.

Core elements include regular sleep patterns, physical activity, and a balanced diet; predictable daily routines; effective stress management; healthy social connections; and moderation of stimuli such as screen time and excessive information intake.

Attention to environment and thought patterns also matters. Reducing clutter and chaos, setting boundaries around work and technology, engaging in meaningful activities, and cultivating adaptive thinking can support mood regulation and coping.

Applications of psychohygiene appear in clinical psychology, education, and workplace wellness programs. It is not a substitute for professional mental health care when a condition is present; rather, it complements therapy, medication management, and diagnostic work.

Practical techniques include maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle, getting daylight and physical activity, practicing mindfulness or relaxation exercises, journaling mood changes, using structured problem-solving, nurturing social ties, and protecting fatigue-prone periods with rest.

Seek professional help if persistent mood changes, sleep disruption, appetite or concentration problems, or thoughts of self-harm occur.