LET’S TALK……. MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health is a very pivotal state of human wellbeing and can in no small way make or mar an individual’s level of productivity and living. Unfortunately, this is the most overlooked aspect of an individual’s health. This is mostly because people find it difficult to understand the challenges accompanied with it majorly because it is not a physical illness and may not immediately affect an individual.

According to World Health Organization, mental health can be viewed as ‘a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her own community’. This means mental health has everything to do with our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing and reflects in how we feel, think and act. It invariably Interferes with the ability to function normally, work, study, or maintain quality of life.

As important as mental health is, it is majorly ignored, with a lot of stigmas surrounding individuals with mental illness across the world. Some of these mental health disorders are mood, anxiety, traumatic stress, eating disorders etc.

As a result of this, individuals who are suffering from mental health illnesses are not even aware of their challenges much less how to help or manage, due to lack of understanding or resources. Studies have shown that one in every five people may be battling mentally health challenges and it can occur at any age.

Because we are so keen on health, we will be sharing some signs of mental illness and a few tips on how to improve your health to achieve an overall healthy lifestyle.

SIGNS OF MENTAL ILLNESS

• · Social withdrawal and seclusion

• · Excessive worry or anxiety

• · Abrupt or dramatic changes in eating or sleeping pattern

• · Severe change in mood

• · Long lasting sadness or irritability

Although the signs of mental illness are not exhaustive, pay attention to your health and body and do something about it when you notice a quick change, no matter how small the change is.

STEPS TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH

• · Develop a habit of always talking about your feelings, it helps!

• · Seek help through a therapist/counsellor

• · Exercise/meditation

• · Take a break from activities

• · Get enough rest and sleep

• · Healthy/balanced diet

• · Travel

• · Hangout with family and friends

Some mental illnesses may not be curable but with the right steps, you can Improve and manage your health to live a happy life.

Don’t forget, you do not need to have a mental illness before managing your health, you should start now. Take care of your health and be intentional about you.