You leave the house thinking you’ll just pick up some bathing soap. Maybe grab a pack of detergent or a new toothbrush while you’re at it. That’s the plan. But somehow, you come back with a new bedsheet, a kitchen blender on sale, a set of non-stick cookware you don’t really need, and a Bluetooth speaker you spotted near the checkout. And in that moment, it didn’t feel like a mistake—it felt like a little reward. Something you’ve earned.

Truth is, many of us don’t always spend because we need something. Sometimes, we buy things just to feel better. It could be stress from work, boredom, or that general tiredness that comes from living in a place where nothing ever seems simple. That small excitement of buying something new—especially something cheap and shiny—can feel like comfort. It’s not really about the item; it’s about the relief.

And those selling these things? They understand this feeling better than you think. That’s why the woman in the market calls you “my real customer” even when you’re just looking. That’s why you get WhatsApp messages saying “Last chance—big discount ends tonight!” It’s why supermarkets put sweet bread right at the entrance, knowing your hands might reach for something before your brain catches up.

We also attach meaning to what we buy. That electric kettle or set of non-stick pots isn’t just another household upgrade—it can feel like a reward for pushing through a long, frustrating week. That plush bedsheet you didn’t plan for? It might just be your quiet way of saying, “I’ve earned a bit of comfort.” Buying things gives a short sense of control in a country where so much feels out of our hands.

But once that quick excitement fades, the questions begin: Why did I even buy this? Where did all my money go? You start noticing how many things are lying around unused—those skincare sets still sealed in their packaging, the sneakers you’ve only worn once, that Bluetooth speaker you swore you needed but now can’t even find the charger for.

So what can you do to slow things down? Start small. Before you buy something that wasn’t in your plan, pause and ask: Do I truly need this, or am I just reacting to how I feel? You can also try the “24-hour rule.” Wait till the next day before buying something you didn’t plan for. Most times, you’ll realise you don’t even care about it anymore.

Write short shopping lists. Stick to them, even if it means avoiding eye contact with the seller calling you. Track your spending for one week, just to see how often you buy things out of mood, not necessity. You’ll be surprised.

Spending money isn’t the problem. You’re allowed to enjoy life. But when buying things becomes a way to cover stress, sadness, or even loneliness, it’s worth paying attention. Because sometimes, what we’re truly looking for isn’t another throw pillow, or set of wine glasses. It’s comfort. Distraction. A quick fix for something deeper we haven’t quite figured out yet. At times, what we really need is peace of mind. And unfortunately, peace isn’t on any shelf.

More often than not, our mental health is an aspect of our lives that is overlooked. We tend to pay attention to other parts and aspects of our lives, take optimum care of them and ensure that nothing goes wrong. However, we often draw the line at mental health.

We originate from conservative societies where we are taught not to pay attention to our mental health nor seek help. This is not to be seen as weak.  This makes us unable to do things that helps us keep a healthy mental health. However, people are beginning to pay attention to their health and are doing things that would help them keep healthy, mentally.

Do you feel overwhelmed or in need of tips to help you improve your mental health? Here are a few things you can do to improve your mental health.

Exercise Regularly.

Research has shown, times without number, that physical exercise has a way of relaxing the mind. It also boosts your mood, reduces your stress and enhances cognitive function. So, step out of your room and jog that distance, register at that gym and take those squats. You will realize that after doing these, your health mentally will take a better shape. You will also feel better than before.

Engage in Hobbies. 

Doing things that make you happy has a way of helping you to maintain a healthy mental state. Note that, The more you engage in things that keep you excited and happy, the more dopamine secretion is increased and the happier you are. Getting involved with things that help you channel your passion and release your inner creativity helps to improve your mental health and be happier.

Practice Gratitude.

The more one focuses on the negativities of life, the sadder that person becomes. However, if you can pay lesser attention to the negatives and more attention to the positives, you will be happier. Be grateful for each day at a time and all that comes with it.

Instead of ending your day with complaints and annoyance, end your day with gratitude and be happy about the things that went well. That way you can get the mental improvement that you yearn for.

Practice Self-care.

Taking care of yourself and doing things that pamper your self goes a long way in improving your mental health. Engage in activities that bring you relaxation and joy. Go on that spa date, travel on that vacation, spend some time with those friends of yours, and read that book. Just do those things that make you happy and gives you peace and your mental health is on its way to improvement.

Read Also: Mental Health Versus Sleep; The Benefits Of Sleep On Your Mental Health.

Build Strong Relationships.

Research has proved many times that being around people that you love and are comfortable around helps to reduce stress levels. Nurturing relationships with family, friends, romantic partners and people in the community helps you be better. Moreover, you should have people to confide in and be free around.  Reduced stress levels helps to improve your mental health and keep you happy. Make those friends and have fun with them. You will be doing your mental health a great deal of good.

Bonus tip.

Setting Healthy Boundaries.

You might also want to set healthy boundaries that would help you keep at bay, anything that would affect your mental health negatively. Boundaries with friendships, relationships, work and life in general would help you to manage and handle your life effectively and avoid any negative triggers on your mental health.

Do not ever forget to prioritize your mental health and do things that would help you keep a healthy, mentally.  You do not want to be a physically well but mentally unhealthy person, do you? I will be looking forward to your feedback on the result of using these tips. You are welcome.