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Mental health is one component of the general definition of health, but it usually isn’t given the same attention as physical health. When people say, “I am healthy,” how many also imply being mentally healthy? Probably not many. Even though mental health awareness is increasing year by year, it is clear that there is still a way to go.
Mental Health Day is the special day for this awareness, celebrated every year with different themes on the 10th of October. This year’s special campaign highlights the importance of decent working conditions and an inclusive environment for “Mental Health at Work”. There is a strong emphasis on the employer’s responsibility this year and obviously, a call for them to take actions that prioritize the mental health of employees.
In this article, we will be covering different topics we want to bring forward regarding mental health.
Access to Mental Health Services
On these special days, while drawing attention to the meaning of the day, we also need to emphasize the realities. The day is “World Mental Health Day; however, accessing mental health services is still an issue, particularly for low-income countries. This is usually related to the social and economic conditions of the countries, making the target three interrelated with several sustainable development goals.
In some regions, people cannot access psychological services due to a lack of investment and availability of experts; in other places, the issue might be the high costs for citizens. Furthermore, misconceptions and scarce knowledge are also among the barriers to utilizing mental health services.
They are equally important to addressing and finding solutions for better individuals and societies.
Mental Health Stigmatization
Mental disorders are still stigmatized to some degree, which prohibits many people from seeking help. These conditions, which can be treated with appropriate approaches, can lead to a wide variety of additional consequences for the individuals if left behind without any help and support.
We need to know about the myths and replace them with facts about mental health.
What you should know:
- Mental health disorders can be treated.
- Many people with mental health conditions do not have more potential to be violent than anyone.
- Having a mental health issue does not mean someone is weak.
- Although specific circumstances can make some people more susceptible, anyone can experience mental health issues.
Be aware of whether you also believe in these and various other myths. Learn more about the facts and encourage people around you to benefit from mental health services as well as get help if needed.
When to Seek Help?
Mental health does not mean the absence of disorder, several life events or experiences may negatively impact us and we may need help to overcome the issues. Depending on the depth of the situation and given reactions, it may be necessary to seek help. Please do not wait for things to get worse, and do not postpone. Mental well-being means a good quality of life.
Observe yourself and notice what you experience.
- Changes in your sleep and appetite,
- Difficulty in your attention and concentration,
- Lack of interest in activities you usually do,
- Serious difficulties in interpersonal relationships,
- Excessive stress and anxiety,
These and others can be some signs of the need to see a professional, especially if they last a few weeks. Moreover, it is important to be aware of any experience or situation that obstructs you and your life from functioning well.
Psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both might be parts of the treatment concerning the condition. First, access the most convenient service (a hospital, clinic, community mental health services, etc.) for you. Subsequently, the specialist will direct you to the right place, path, and plan.
Protect Your Mental Well-being
Some activities can be protective of our mental health. But please remember, these activities do not cure existing mental health disorders, yet their presence is always effective. Get help whenever you feel unwell, and try to integrate these activities into your life.
Do Mindful Activities
Ruminative thinking is associated with constantly thinking about a subject or event that bothers the person, which maintains the feeling of discomfort and often brings no other result than negative emotions. This process continues with a lack of intention to relieve the negative emotions that rumination brings.
Some activities help you to stay in the now and here, which can be easily done anywhere. When you feel stuck in your repetitive thoughts after a stressful day, you can try mindfulness activities to be in the moment. In this process, you might think of the problem that disturbs you, which is completely fine. Accepting your thoughts and emotions without being judgemental is a part of mindfulness. Accept and try to be back to your current moment.
For example, after the end of your school or work, you can practice these activities on your way back:
- Experience whatever is on your way with your sensory organs, either on the bus or while walking. For example, you can observe the objects with their shapes and colours, feel the wind, and pay attention to the sound around you. If you are home, do the same in your room and stay focused on your environment.
- While having dinner, eat slowly and savour it. Be aware of every second while eating: the moments you lift the food with your fork, the time you take it to your mouth, and the time you chew.
We can integrate mindfulness into our daily routines and enjoy the moment.
Acquire and Engage in New Hobbies
Hobbies are not just leisure activities but also protective factors that positively affect our well-being. They are great for personal development. Depending on the type of hobby, your gains may vary. Your creativity can surprisingly show up, you can be bodily active, you can reach your hidden talent, and most importantly, you can explore yourself. Many hobbies also require cognitive effort, which increases brain plasticity and provides additional advantages. Based on the study conducted with an ageing population, the benefits of hobbies spanned from less depressive symptoms to greater self-reported health and life satisfaction.
Connect with Others
Building healthy connections with other people provides us with a space to socialize and stay active in life. From time to time, some may want to stay alone, or others may generally like being by themselves. They are both understandable, yet living an isolated life causes loneliness that is associated with mental health issues. The scarcity of social activities is considered one of the determinants of the increase in mental health problems during the pandemic.
Therefore, be sure that you regularly participate in the events organized by friends and family or even organize them yourself. Spending time and connecting with others also brings social support, which is seriously important for our mental well-being. You do not have to be alone if you are going through a difficult period. You can share your emotions and thoughts with someone you trust. Sometimes, social support mechanisms can play a key role. Talking, being understood, and feeling that emotional closeness has a healing effect in itself. Also, let your loved ones touch you in hard times.
Mental Health and Lifestyle
Having an organized life is a solid part of physical as well as mental health. What you eat, your quality of sleep and your sportive activities can be more powerful than you imagine for your mental well-being.
- Try to balance your diet with nutritious food. Limit your alcohol and junk food intake.
- Sleep at least 7 hours per day.
- Move. Keep your body active and exercise regularly.
Read more about these tips, and keep in mind that mental and physical health are interconnected. Don’t underestimate how much mental health and stress affect your body physically and vice versa!
Parents Fostering Mental Health
Family relationships are fundamental for children, and family members are among the first people they talk to about their negative experiences, emotions, thoughts, and others. Children and adolescents experience mental health disorders, too, which affect their developmental processes and later adult life. Thus, having supportive and understanding relationships is crucial for their positive development.
Families have strong responsibilities to establish bonds between members from the early years of a child’s life. Kids need to know that they will be listened to without being judged and not criticized. Often, children struggle to make sense of their experiences by themselves, which is why they will definitely need guidance to cope with their problems.
Family environment, whether blood-related or not, is essential to developing necessary coping strategies for children.
- Talk to children about their emotions and help them understand and embrace any kind of feelings.
- Integrate problem-solving situations into their games, ask questions, and help them find the best strategies with your guidance.
- Let them make mistakes; it is paramount in the learning process.
Families can also play a crucial role in introducing children to mental health resources, helping them understand the importance of seeking support when needed.
Investing in mental well-being is a crucial step towards creating a more supportive and inclusive society. Governments and organizations play a vital role in expanding services and raising awareness, but our personal care and awareness are equally important. It’s essential to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage open conversations about our experiences. By supporting each other and seeking help when needed, we can create a more compassionate and understanding environment for everyone!
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