Mental health is as vital as physical health, one of the greatest assets that must be preserved at all costs. Apart from physical health, mental health is the only other resource to keep oneself healthy. We get so caught up in our daily routines, juggling between work and home, that we forget how important it is to dig deep within ourselves to realize self-worth and learn to love and value ourselves.
Unlike physical illness, mental illness is something that most people ignore or try to ignore until it becomes too difficult to manage. If you ask your parents or grandparents what mental health is, you will find that most people in our society, in every home, will have no doubt what it is and clearly state what it is. Things like mental health. But we all know this is not true; The first priority is understanding mental health, especially in India. On World Health Day, it’s time we all engage in a conversation about mental health because mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s like a medical problem like heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes. Let’s start by defining mental health and why everyone needs to take it seriously.
Mental health is about paying attention to yourself, being stress-free, getting enough sleep, spending quality time with yourself and having a good time .. just being you. You must be able to enjoy every moment of your life without stressing over things that may be out of your control. WHO has clearly stated that there is no health without mental health. As a result, there is an understanding at the highest levels of healthcare that you cannot be a healthy person without paying attention to mental health.
—-Why is it essential to spread mental health awareness?
We must make a concerted effort to increase mental health awareness. Simply put, we need to change the way our society thinks about mental health. The only solution is to have deep and difficult conversations when necessary and admit that a problem must be addressed immediately. Someone with mental health should not be afraid or ashamed to speak out about their concerns. But this is only possible when society gets over the myth that mental health is fake. It is understandable that asking for help takes a lot of courage and that one needs to balance their mind and take the first step toward self-improvement.
How do I understand a mental health condition?
Mental health is difficult to monitor because how we think, feel and act is ever-changing. When our mental health is good, we enjoy being with others and feel able to take on new and difficult challenges. When our mental health is not good, we struggle to cope. We develop mental health problems when thoughts and feelings prevent us from doing things we enjoy or from feeling okay. When this happens, we may need help with our mental health.
Also read: MINDFULNESS and MEDITATION
I think my friend is suffering from depression. How can I help so she doesn’t feel bad?
First let your friend know that you are with him. Don’t pressure him to talk, but let him know he can too. Explain that you will not share his story with anyone.
.) Don’t judge what they tell you, even if you think they make no sense. Acknowledge their feelings and show your responsibility by saying:
‘It seems very difficult for you,’
‘I can see that this (subject) upsets you’ or
‘You look very sad now’.
.) Ask what might be helpful for them and suggest that, even if it’s simple, like you don’t like the movie, you can still show it to them.
.) Don’t tell them what to do, but give ideas like:
Have you thought about telling the teacher? or
‘Do you know of a toll-free consultation connection/line?’
.) Keep checking in. If your friend doesn’t respond, don’t get angry. Be patient and let them know you’re still there waiting and willing to help.
.) may be too difficult for some to take. If you are worried that your friend will harm himself or you do not feel able to cope, try and seek the advice of a trusted adult or professional.
3) Someone in my family has mental health issues. Can I have such a possibility?
Just because someone in your family has a mental health problem doesn’t mean you will. Some studies have shown that if family members have certain types of mental health conditions, others in the family are more likely to experience them as well. We don’t know exactly what causes this. No one can say that someone will or will not develop a mental health condition. Practicing good self-care instructions will help your mental health and is good for everyone.
4) How do I know when to get mental health help?
Just as we all get sick at some point in our lives, many of us will struggle with mental health.
There are some signs that you may need:
() Feeling hopeless, worthless – struggling to see the bright side of life or not wanting to be.
() to argue or fight a lot.
() Feeling very sad, angry, or anxious all the time.
() Numbness – not feeling any emotions, being unable to get out of bed or do things you like.
() Extreme elevated and depressed, or mood swings.
() Not feeling able to calm yourself, being on edge, or having thoughts running through your mind.
()Changes in eating patterns – starving yourself, overeating – making yourself sick.
() Using substances such as alcohol or marijuana to help you forget or cope with your feelings.
() Intentional self-injury.
If you’re experiencing thoughts, feelings, or behaviors, it’s important to seek help. That doesn’t mean a person has to have a mental health condition, but some things can help you.
5) Can a person with mental health problems recover?
Yes, Most people who experience mental illness will recover, and some only once. Some people may have additional conditions. Only very few people live with mental health conditions throughout their lives. With the right help, people living with mental health can live well without major setbacks.
6) Are mental health conditions caused by spirits or curses?
There is no evidence that mental health problems are caused by spiritual, religious, or occult practices. There are many reasons why people experience poor mental health, such as family life, networks, physical health and what applies to them. Many people who are having a hard time are guided by their existing religious precepts, but when someone is experiencing a mental health condition, they also need different types of support. If someone is experiencing a mental health problem or condition, it is important to seek help from a health professional.
7) Does exercise really help with mental health?
Exercise can improve your mood, focus and energy. It can even help you have a positive outlook on life.
Regular exercise can help you sleep better. Good sleep helps your mood. Exercise can also help you feel in control and feel better about yourself.
8) What is stigma and how does it affect people with mental health conditions?
Stigma is an unfair negative attitude that distinguishes living with mental health conditions. This is often due to a person’s lack of proper knowledge about the problem and sometimes fear associated with wrong information. It can lead to people with mental health conditions being treated differently, seen as abnormal and worthless, and excluded from society. This can then lead the person with the condition to feel shame, sometimes worsening their mental health. It can prevent people with mental health problems from getting help, engaging in social activities and living happy lives.
Common depression, depression and mental illness are the same?
As a Psychologist we say that as the human mind is happy, it can also be bad at times. But if moodiness or depression persists for a long time then mental health needs to be addressed.
All of us can get upset at times in our lives. But it’s not meant to be for long or long. Or in a better case, the news is supposed to be better. But if there is continuous depression or depression for more than two weeks, then it should be considered as a symptom of mental illness.”
Depression is considered an important mental health problem. Because if it is not given proper attention in the beginning, it can create serious problems. Many people understand depression as depression.
“If you suffer from depression, you don’t feel good even if you go outside the house, office or favorite places. No matter how good things happen, go to your favorite places, then bad feelings do not change. Then it started to affect the mutual relationship.”
You are not alone ——
It is important to know that you are not alone in this. Mental illness is very common, and there are many people who understand what you are going through. There are many resources available to help you manage your condition and live a full life. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. You can get through this
How can you get help for your mental illness problems?
There are many ways you can find support in your own community, family or social circles if you have a mental health problem. Start by searching online for mental health practitioners, Counsellors, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, mental health organizations, support groups, forums. Many websites cater to this need, and you can find one that suits you. You can also look for local meetings or events related to mental health and see if there is one in your area.
This can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through and can offer support. Additionally, many community mental health resources, such as clinics or specific services offered through local hospitals or government agencies, are available. Ask around to see what’s available in your area. Finally, don’t be afraid to contact a professional for help if you need it.