Statistics has shown that 1 out of every 5
individual experiences one mental condition or the other. Most people tends to
keep this “stigma” to them and do not seek for help while some are actually
seeking for ways to deal with it.
This week has been set aside to commemorate the
Mental Health Awareness week.
Mental health is a state of well-being in which
every individual realizes his or her own potential, cope with the normal
stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a
contribution to her or his community – WHO
Are you aware that your mental state determines
your relational state? Indeed! The state of your mental health makes a sum total
of who you are and how you relate with people or handle situations around. Hence,
it is very essential for you to take into cognizance you’re the state of your
mental health.
Here Are Ten Things You Can Do to Improve Your
Mental Health
Try
these tips to help find the right balance in your life.*
1. Value yourself:
Treat
yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Make time for
your hobbies and favorite projects, or broaden your horizons. Do a daily
crossword puzzle, plant a garden, take dance lessons, learn to play an
instrument or become fluent in another language.
2. Take care of your body:
Taking
care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to:
§
Eat
nutritious meals
§
Avoid
cigarettes
§
Drink
plenty of water
§
Exercise,
which helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods
§
Get
enough sleep. Researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to a high rate
of depression in college students.
3. Surround yourself with good people:
People
with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who
lack a support network. Make plans with supportive family members and friends,
or seek out activities where you can meet new people, such as a club, class or
support group.
4. Give yourself:
Volunteer
your time and energy to help someone else. You'll feel good about doing
something tangible to help someone in need — and it's a great way to meet new
people.
5. Learn how to deal with stress:
Like it
or not, stress is a part of life. Practice good coping skills:
Try exercising, take a nature walk, play with your pet or try journal
writing as a stress reducer. Also, remember to smile and see the humor in life.
Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax
your body and reduce stress.
6. Quiet your mind:
Try
meditating, Mindfulness and/or prayer. Relaxation exercises and prayer can
improve your state of mind and outlook on life. In fact, research shows that
meditation may help you feel calm and enhance the effects of therapy.
7. Set realistic goals:
Decide
what you want to achieve academically, professionally and personally, and write
down the steps you need to realize your goals. Aim high, but be realistic and
don't over-schedule. You'll enjoy a tremendous sense of accomplishment and
self-worth as you progress toward your goal.
8. Break up the monotony:
Although
our routines make us more efficient and enhance our feelings of security and
safety, a little change of pace can perk up a tedious schedule. Alter your
jogging route, plan a road-trip, take a walk in a different park, hang some new
pictures or try a new restaurant.
9. Avoid alcohol and other drugs:
Keep
alcohol use to a minimum and avoid other drugs. Sometimes people use alcohol
and other drugs to "self-medicate" but in reality, alcohol and other
drugs only aggravate problems. For more information.
10. Get help when you need it:
Seeking
help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. And it is important to remember
that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from
mental illness and substance abuse disorders and lead full, rewarding lives.
Credits;
*https://www.uhs.umich.edu/tenthings
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