The year 2021 is not just another new year. The globe has changed in every possible way and most of us are aiming to be healthier, happier than the year before. The new normal has redefined our ways of growth, peace, and success. The biggest productivity disruptor in the changing world is not the Gross Domestic Product (the standard measure of the value-added created through the production of goods and services in a country) or lack of opportunities or the business crisis- it is our Mental Health.
Work from home burnout, video fatigue, new dynamics of the virtual world, job uncertainties, lack of social interactions, less mobilization, engaging children during the working times are the contributing factors that can lead to a breakdown. Unless we take a step and prioritize emotional and mental wellbeing, things will not fall in place. To make 2021 easy, healthy, and happy, let's take a step together.
We will look at what is mental health and easy steps to make mental health a priority.
What is Mental Health?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It defines how we think, feel, and act.
Emotional wellbeing consists of all positive and negative emotions. Note that, while mental health and emotional health are sometimes used interchangeably, they are distinctly different. Being mentally sound and healthy doesn't mean that you are always happy, motivated, and cheerful. Likewise, people with mental health issues are not necessarily sad, anxious, depressed, angry, or delusional.
Why Mental Health Should Be a Priority?
Mental health disorders, particularly depression, is a leading cause of health and disability across the world and India is no exception. While humans have not paid much attention to their mental health for centuries, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed people’s perspective and they have started taking steps towards making mental health a priority.
Today, mental health is given equal importance as physical health and every individual is understanding the need and importance of being mentally healthy. Mental health and wellbeing is important to individuals, families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
Steps to Make Mental Health a Priority
1. Keep Moving. Even if it is a small step, moving towards desirable goals matter. Achieving our goals, both personal and professional keeps us happy, motivated and instills a feeling of confidence. So, keep moving!
2. Speak Up. Asking for help while being stressed and showing negative feelings is not easy. Talk to your family members, friends, colleagues, or reach out to mental health care professionals. Seeking help and support from time to time can make all the difference.
3. Learn to Manage and Tackle Stress. If you are someone who stresses out even for the slightest things, then practicing mediation, yoga, journaling, or any other relaxation technique can help beat the stress. Take things lightly and try to let go of things that are not in your control.
4. Finding Purpose. Doing things with a greater purpose will help your mental health. Boosting self-esteem, and recognizing your own strengths will start happening when you identify the purpose and work towards fulfilling it.
5. Stay Physically Fit and Active. Taking care of your physical health will automatically regulate your mental health since both are linked closely. Exercise daily, eat nutritious food, sleep, and rest well to stay mentally as well as physically fit.
Keep your mental health healthy. Make your mental health a priority and be happy!
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.