Boost your everyday life with the ABC Method: Recognized method to become happier in everyday life

We've all heard about the importance of exercise, healthy eating and not smoking to maintain our physical health. But what about our mental health? Professor Vibeke Koushede believes we are lagging behind in this area and her mission is to change that. She introduces us to the ABC method, a simple but powerful approach to improving our mental health.

Below we dive into this method that promises to make us more aware of our own mental wellbeing and make us happier in our everyday lives, and who doesn't want a happier everyday life?

Background and motivation

Behind the ABC method is Vibeke Koushede, a dedicated professor from the University of Copenhagen. Her interest in mental health was sparked when she realized that when talking about health, the focus was often on physical health, while the mental aspect was overlooked. The physical determinants of health are often easier to make concrete, whereas mental factors can be more diffuse and individual. But Vibeke Koushede wants to change this with this simple method.

ABCs of mental health

ABC stands for Act, Belong, and Commit. Three simple but transformative principles adapted to the Danish reality.

• Act: Do something active. Being active on physical, social, mental and spiritual levels has been shown to have a direct impact on our mental health. This can be anything from going for a walk to engaging in a hobby.
• Belong: Do something together. Social relationships are key. Prioritizing time with family, friends and participating in social activities strengthens our mental wellbeing.
• Commit: Do something meaningful. Finding meaning in our daily activities, whether it's through hobbies, volunteering or personal challenges, is essential for our mental health.

Implementation in Denmark

The ABC approach is making its way into the lives of Danes. The Finance Act for the coming year allocates funds to spread the message and implement the method in organizations and municipalities across the country. This will increase the focus on mental wellbeing, and this ABC will help with concrete solutions to make us happier in our everyday lives.

The ABC method is not just another trend; it's scientifically grounded and accessible to everyone. So if you want to work on your mental health, do as Vibeke Koushede recommends and put the to-do list aside and let the yay list guide you to better mental health.

"If you want to feel better mentally, these are the three things you need to focus on. It's important to remember to take care of yourself mentally, and these are the low-hanging fruit."