Surprising actions that are actually good for your mental health.
We’re constantly told to eliminate bad habits in the name of self-improvement, but what if some of those so-called “bad” behaviors actually benefit your mental health? From procrastination to occasional swearing, certain habits that seem unproductive or indulgent may actually help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost overall well-being.
Instead of feeling guilty, you might want to embrace these unexpected mental health boosters.
1. Putting things off can spark better ideas.
Procrastination isn’t always about laziness—it can actually give your brain time to incubate ideas. When you step away from a task, your subconscious keeps working on it, often leading to fresh insights and creative solutions.
Of course, there’s a fine line between productive delay and last-minute panic. But when used strategically, a little procrastination can help you approach problems with a clearer, more creative mind, according to Upworthy.
2. Dropping a few F-bombs can make you feel better.
Turns out, swearing isn’t just about being crude—it’s a built-in stress reliever. Studies show that letting out a few expletives can reduce pain, ease frustration, and even improve social bonding, according to Psychology Today.
Instead of suppressing your urge to curse, consider it a tool for emotional release. Just maybe don’t overdo it in a board meeting or at the family dinner table.
3. Staying up late can boost creativity.
Night owls often get a bad rap, but research suggests that working late can fuel innovation. Some of the most creative thinkers, from writers to scientists, have done their best work in the quiet hours of the night.
While regular sleep is important, if you find yourself feeling inspired after midnight, don’t fight it—embrace the late-night spark and let the ideas flow.
4. Hitting snooze can actually help you wake up.
Sleep experts may tell you to ditch the snooze button, but easing into your morning with an extra few minutes of rest isn’t the worst thing. Gradual waking can help your body transition out of deep sleep, making you feel less groggy.
If snoozing helps you start the day in a better mood, go for it—just don’t let it turn into an hour-long sleep marathon.
5. Complaining (the right way) can be therapeutic.
Nobody likes a chronic complainer, but venting your frustrations in a constructive way can actually help reduce stress. Bottling up emotions can lead to resentment, while expressing concerns—especially with solutions in mind—can bring relief and perspective.
The key is to avoid dwelling on negativity. Instead, use complaining as a way to release tension and problem-solve rather than just spiral into a bad mood.
6. Binge-watching can be a form of self-care.
Spending an entire weekend glued to a TV series might sound like a waste of time, but sometimes, it’s exactly what your brain needs. Engaging in a good story can be an emotional reset, offering a mental break from stress and anxiety.
As long as binge-watching isn’t interfering with responsibilities, it can be a guilt-free way to recharge and escape for a little while.
7. Eating ‘junk’ food can lift your mood.
Sure, a balanced diet is important, but sometimes, indulging in your favorite comfort food is just what the doctor ordered. Studies show that eating foods associated with happy memories can trigger dopamine release and boost mood.
The key is moderation—enjoying a burger, ice cream, or fries every now and then won’t ruin your health, but it can definitely lift your spirits.
8. Daydreaming helps you problem-solve.
Zoning out isn’t a sign of distraction—it’s your brain’s way of making connections and processing information. Studies suggest that daydreaming can enhance creativity, help with problem-solving, and even improve memory.
Instead of fighting it, embrace those mental wanderings. You never know when a breakthrough idea might come from letting your mind drift.
9. Spending money on experiences instead of saving every penny.
Saving is important, but being too frugal can make life feel restrictive. Research shows that spending money on experiences—like travel, concerts, or special outings—leads to greater happiness than hoarding every dollar.
Instead of feeling guilty for splurging on a trip or a fun event, remember that memories last longer than material possessions.
10. Saying ‘no’ more often can save your sanity.
People-pleasing can lead to burnout, yet many feel guilty about saying no. But setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s self-care. Protecting your time and energy helps prevent stress and resentment.
Saying no doesn’t mean shutting people out—it just means prioritizing your well-being. And the more you practice it, the easier it gets.
11. Skipping workouts can be better than forcing them.
Pushing yourself to exercise every single day can backfire, leading to exhaustion or even injury. Rest days are crucial for both physical and mental health, allowing your body to recover and reset.
Instead of beating yourself up for missing a workout, listen to your body. Some days, relaxation is exactly what you need.
12. Laughing at inappropriate moments is actually a coping mechanism.
Ever laughed at a funeral or during a tense argument? It might seem insensitive, but inappropriate laughter is often the brain’s way of dealing with stress and uncomfortable emotions.
Rather than feeling embarrassed, recognize that humor can be a powerful coping tool. Sometimes, a well-timed laugh is exactly what’s needed to break tension and regain perspective.
13. Talking to yourself boosts confidence.
Muttering to yourself isn’t a sign of losing it—it’s actually a proven way to improve focus, reinforce learning, and boost confidence. Self-talk helps with motivation and problem-solving, whether you’re hyping yourself up or working through a tough decision.
So next time you catch yourself talking aloud, don’t feel weird about it—you’re just giving yourself some expert advice.
14. Spending time alone is good for your mind.
Society often equates being alone with loneliness, but solitude is actually a powerful tool for mental well-being. Taking time for yourself allows you to recharge, reflect, and gain clarity without external distractions.
Whether it’s a solo coffee date or an evening walk, embracing alone time can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed by constant social demands.