Mental wellness is critical to everyone’s physical health, happiness, and growth. While one out of every five people will experience a mental illness at any point in their lives, everyone faces obstacles that can affect their mental health. However, mental health problems are normal and treatable.
Have you ever been so emotionally tired that you feel yourself getting physically tired?What does one even do when everything becomes overwhelming?
After more than a year of COVID-related lockdowns, protests and sheltering in place, pandemic life has become the new normal with almost every aspect of our lives being impacted, including our mental wellness. Mental health and my smartphone feel immediately at odds, I am consistently re-indoctrinated back into its enchanting soup of photos, videos and people that define my virtual life — knocking me down the rabbit hole of fears, desires and insecurities. We all have moments in our lives where things may feel a bit too much. This maybe a result of stress from work, loneliness, health related issues, or your environment is toxic.
Therefore, we have to always prioritize how social media impacts our mental health, can continue to empower you to express your individuality and be who you are without judgment. It is more important than ever to reduce the stigma associated with mental health problems, which usually prohibits individuals from getting adequate help and speaking to their loved ones because of the fear of being judged or watered down. Prioritizing mental health by providing support and assistance to affected individuals and their families by building relationships, creating outlets to help manage anxiety, and advocating for awareness campaigns.
Regardless, there are tips to mental wellness you can practice to strengthen your mental health and resiliency.
Accept the things we can’t control in life, consciously process the emotional challenges that come with major transitions, managing disappointment and resentment, recognizing where trauma is impacting your mental well-being, challenging negative thought habits, and most importantly making time for yourself.
Finally, also seeking professional support from an expert when self-help fails to strengthen your mental health is a symbol of courage, not vulnerability. Remember, it is okay not to be okay, so reach out when you need help. Allowing yourself to accept and feel your present emotions until it passes will make you feel better and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and worrisome — Your feelings are valid.
It may not be easy to live a healthier lifestyle and use mental health advice or tips to succeed, but you can achieve it by making incremental improvements and celebrating your small victories.
Written by Debbie Danjuma
