When you’ve been struggling with your mental health for a while, it’s easy to assume things will never get better.
That’s not true, of course, but the way anxiety and depression beat you down, sometimes it’s hard to spot the signs that you’re not in as dark of a place as you once were. You might think you’re still in a bad way, and you may still have some work to do to get to a place where you’re truly content, but if these things are happening, you’re definitely on the right path.
1. You’re better at setting boundaries.
Saying no used to feel impossible, but now you’re starting to assert your needs, even if it’s uncomfortable. Setting boundaries is a big step toward prioritising your well-being over people-pleasing. It might still feel awkward or guilt-inducing, but the fact that you’re practising is a sign of growth. As you get more comfortable with boundaries, you’ll find it easier to protect your energy and focus on what matters most.
2. You’re noticing your emotions more.
Recognising emotions as they come instead of pushing them away is a sign of increased self-awareness. That change can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s part of the healing process. When you’re able to identify and sit with your emotions, you’re giving yourself space to process them instead of burying them. Over time, it leads to greater emotional resilience and a deeper understanding of yourself.
3. Your sleep patterns are improving.
Better sleep is one of the most tangible signs of improving mental health. If you’ve been struggling with insomnia or irregular sleep, even small improvements mean your mind and body are finding balance. You might notice you’re falling asleep faster or waking up feeling slightly more rested. These changes suggest that your nervous system is calming down, paving the way for deeper rest and recovery.
4. You’re reaching out for support more often.
Isolation is a common response to mental health struggles, so reaching out to people you trust is a sign of progress. Whether it’s talking to a friend, joining a group, or scheduling therapy, getting the support you need shows that you value connection. It might feel vulnerable or uncomfortable at first, but every step toward opening up strengthens your support system. Knowing when to ask for help is a powerful skill that helps you navigate challenges more effectively.
5. You’re managing stress better.
Stress doesn’t disappear, but how you handle it can improve. If you’re starting to notice that you’re reacting less intensely to triggers or finding ways to calm yourself more quickly, that’s a sign of progress. Using coping techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or exercise can make stress feel more manageable. Over time, these habits build resilience, helping you recover faster from difficult moments.
6. You’re taking more interest in your hobbies.
When mental health is struggling, even activities you used to love can feel like a chore. Noticing a spark of interest in your hobbies again, no matter how small, is a positive sign. Whether you’re picking up a book, painting, or revisiting a sport you enjoy, it shows that your mind is starting to reconnect with joy and curiosity. These moments can be stepping stones toward a fuller, more engaging life.
7. You’re more patient with yourself.
Source: Unsplash Being harsh on yourself might have felt like second nature before, but noticing moments of self-compassion is a clear sign of improvement. It means you’re recognising your humanity and allowing yourself to make mistakes. As you become more patient, you’ll find it easier to celebrate small wins and let go of unnecessary guilt. Self-compassion becomes a foundation for building a healthier relationship with yourself.
8. You’re setting realistic goals.
When your mental health improves, you might find yourself shifting from unrealistic expectations to more achievable goals. You’re not lowering your standards; you’re recognising what’s manageable and celebrating progress. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, doable steps shows that you’re working with yourself instead of against yourself. This makes it less likely you’ll get overwhelmed and increases the likelihood of success, building confidence along the way.
9. You’re experiencing fewer negative self-thoughts.
The voice in your head might not be completely kind yet, but noticing fewer harsh or critical thoughts is a sign of healing. It shows that you’re starting to challenge negative beliefs about yourself. It’s a change that often comes with recognising your worth and questioning the validity of those old, critical narratives. As your self-talk becomes more balanced, your confidence and peace of mind grow stronger.
10. You’re eating more regularly or mindfully.
Mental health struggles often disrupt eating habits, whether that means skipping meals or overeating. Starting to notice a more balanced approach to food, like eating when you’re hungry or choosing nourishing options, is a sign of progress. Improved mental health and nutrition often go hand in hand, as both contribute to overall well-being. Paying attention to how food makes you feel is another step toward creating healthier habits that support your recovery.
11. You’re finding it easier to say no.
Constantly saying yes to avoid conflict or disappointment often leads to burnout. If you’re starting to say no when you need to, it shows that you’re prioritising your needs and valuing your time. That doesn’t mean you’ve mastered the art of saying no, but even small steps in this direction indicate growing confidence. Learning to set these boundaries strengthens your ability to focus on what truly matters.
12. You’re spending more time in the present.
Dwelling on the past or worrying about the future is common during tough times. If you’re starting to notice and appreciate the present moment more often, that’s a powerful sign of healing. Being present allows you to engage with what’s happening around you, from enjoying a meal to appreciating a quiet moment. These moments of mindfulness can create a stronger sense of calm and gratitude over time.
13. You’re recognising when you need a break.
Pushing through exhaustion or ignoring signs of burnout might have felt like the norm before. Recognising when you need to pause and rest shows you’re becoming more attuned to your needs. Taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. Giving yourself permission to rest helps you recharge and maintain the energy to keep moving forward.
