JOURNEY TO BETTER MENTAL HEALTH

Mental Health refers to an individual’s overall psychological well-being, which includes their emotional, social, and psychological state.

It encompasses various aspects of a person’s life such as coping with stress, building and maintaining relationships, and making rational and independent decisions. Mental health affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them, and it can be influenced by numerous factors, such as genetics, environmental and social conditions, and life experiences. 

Many are the times people go through mental health issues. It’s challenging to overcome these issues but it’s possible to overcome the problems with the proper support, resources, and determination. 

Below are some of the ways of dealing with mental health issues: 

1. Reach out to someone you trust – talking to someone you trust, like a family member, friend, or colleague, can be helpful in dealing with your mental health. Being able to share your thoughts and feelings without judgment or criticism can be a relief. 
2. Practice Mindfulness – take a couple of minutes to mindfully focus on what’s happening around you. This could include taking deep breaths and trying to notice all five senses, such as looking for things you can see or things you can smell. By doing so, you can help reduce stress and reduce anxiety levels, and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. 
3. Engage in activities you find enjoyable – engaging in activities that you enjoy can help promote good mental health by giving your mind a break from negative thoughts or  feelings of anxiety. Whether it’s reading a book, cooking, or taking a walk in the park, try to do something that makes you feel happy every day. 
4. Avoid harmful substances – While it may seem tempting to turn to drugs to cope with  your emotions, they can do more harm than good in the long run. While these substances might seem like an escape from stressful or hurtful situations, in the long term, they can cause more problems than they solve. They can lead to addiction and dependency which can be difficult to overcome. 
5. Seeking professional help – means consulting with a mental health specialist, such as a therapist, counsellor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. It provides a safe and confidential environment for individuals to open up about their mental health concerns. These professionals can provide therapy that helps individuals better understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. They can also prescribe medication if needed, which can help alleviate symptoms of mental illness

In conclusion, taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. It is essential to recognize the signs of mental health issues and seek help when needed. Mental health is a journey, and it’s important to remember that healing takes time. By taking those vital steps towards better mental health we can ultimately lead happier and healthier lives. Remember it’s okay to ask for help, and mental health struggles do not have to be faced alone. Together we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and prioritize our well-being, making small but impactful changes to lead a happier and healthier life.