Today we move away from the physical health tips and go into mental health care.
A lot of people actually don’t bother how they’re doing in terms of their mental health, some just think it’s not exactly important. Stop it, if you’re one of those people, stop it. You see those little moments of depression, anxiety disorders, creating a big gap between you and socializing, this and a lot more could be more than just random happenings, these are some of the common mental health issues people battle.
I wish I could walk you guys through the other mental health issues there are but all I can let you know is that if you suddenly begin to experience a feeling you’re not used to and it begins to affect your daily activities or basic and regular activities, these 4 tips would serve as a guide to improving your mental health; there’s definitely more but start from these 4 and watch how things change for you.
According to Mental Health Foundation, these are a few important ways to improve your mental health:
1. Take a break; notice there’s something in particular you do that puts you in a mood, then take a break. Could be a minute away from the front of the computer, some minutes away from the kitchen, from cleaning, it could even be a few days exploring some place you’ve always been interested in visiting or just a weekend in your own comfort. Whatever it may be, just take a break. If you break down the world would continue so just take a break from whatever it is and try to get yourself back on track. Take a deep breath and relax. Try yoga or meditation, or just putting your feet up. Listen to your body. If you’re really tired, give yourself time to sleep. Without good sleep, our mental health suffers and our concentration goes downhill. Sometimes the world can wait.
2. Try doing something you’re good at: that one thing that you just zero the whole world out when you’re on it, a hobby you can’t seem to get away from, something you used to love doing and did so well in the past, whatever you might be perfect at. Give it a try. These things actually help as you begin to focus on just one thing at that moment, your brain doesn’t give room for any form of distractions. Do this and gradually you find yourself not worrying about any other thing that might be a burden to your mental health. It can be good to have an interest where you’re not seen as someone’s mum or dad, partner or employee.
3. Control alcohol intake: some people see alcohol as the only remedy to certain issues they experience. At the moment they take it, they feel okay, they’ve stopped thinking but the effect alcohol has on the body only lasts for a while, so then what happens when you become sober. You become even worse because of the effect alcohol withdrawal has on the brain and the rest of the body. That’s when you see people wondering what happened hours before they became sober. Alcohol is not a good way to handle difficult feelings in general. Subsequently you begin to want more and more each time you feel you’re going through things. Occasional light drinking is perfectly healthy and enjoyable for most people. Stay within the recommended weekly alcohol limits; 14 units a week for both men and women. Many people also smoke or use drugs or other substances to change how they feel. But, again, the effects are short-lived. The more you use, the more you crave. Nicotine and drugs don’t solve problems, they create them.
4. Seek help: If you feel like what you’re going through is too much to endure, feel safe to ask for help as we are all just humans and not super humans. Family and friends are there to offer a listening ear. There’s also local services like joining a support group or even finding a counselor. If you have tried everything right to get better and it seems to still remain the same do not hesitate to seek help. Thankfully there are a lot of counselors available nowadays, you could even get counseled over the phone if you’re not up for physical meets, whichever way the world has evolved and the internet has made it easier and better to find therapists and counselors. Don’t keep to yourself, speak out, express your feelings and improve your mental health.
Also if you know anyone going through it, advice the person if it’s something you can help out with. Hugs also go a long way. Give someone a hug today, you don’t know you might just be helping someone heal.
