World Mental Health Day: Self-care is important, and so are you
Celebrating a day that celebrates people no matter what they're going through - because different doesn't mean wrong, it means unique.
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World Mental Health Day 2022 (etuce.org)
Have you asked yourself today how you're doing instead of waiting for someone else to do it?
Today marks the annual International Mental Health Day. The term "mental health" is more than a taboo topic gone public - this is increasingly becoming a matter of utter importance that needs to be spoken more about.
Individuals, big or small, come from all different walks of life. Mental health is not just about being happy or sad, satisfied or not. Yes, it is intertwined with feelings, behavior, emotions, and thoughts, but most significantly, it embodies the importance of caring for our health, because we often tend to focus on our physical and internal health and forget about our mental well-being.
It is crucial to acknowledge that mental health has varying layers, forms, and needs.
Unfortunately, mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and anxiety disorders have become quite prevalent nowadays. Many of these stem from genetics, abuse, or trauma, yet fortunately, many of them can be treated through medications or therapy. More forms include unhappiness and other states of negative emotions that make one perhaps feel down. Sometimes you may feel the need to see a professional, a friend, or a family member, and sometimes, all you need is a moment with yourself.
These are not intended to serve as medical advice, but as friendly tips to help preserve your mental health on a daily basis:
- First, breathe. As simple as that.
- Surround yourself with people you care about and who care back, who provide you with positive energy and motivation.
- Although eating healthily is among the top necessities, it's okay to indulge in moderation in something you've been craving for a while.
- Read a book, watch a film or take a walk somewhere in nature.
- Meditate and jot down in your journal or workout.
- Begin quitting habits that affect you negatively such as smoking or procrastinating.
- Learn something new like a language or a hobby.
- Take a break from work or a certain routine you've been rotating into.
- Get enough sleep and vitamin intake to improve your internal health as it nurtures your mind and soul.
- Lastly, remember that you matter, and you can inspire others the same way you could yourself.
