Tomorrow is “World Mental Health Day” and the theme for 2020 is “Mental Health for All”. According to the WHO, this day is observed on 10 October to raise awareness around the world.
Thanks to the Covid19 pandemic, preserving mental health has become more important than ever. So many people are cut off from their loved ones, their regular activities are curtailed, and the economy has worsened. Despite all this negativity, we need to remain resilient. Anxiety disorders, depression, drug abuse, suicides, etc. are on the rise and we need to know when to reach out for help.
If you’re feeling stressed out and depressed due to Covid19 or any other reason, don’t hesitate to seek help. Here are some suggestions:
– Talk to people you trust about your feelings.
– Consult your doctor.
– Keep in touch with family and friends.
– Exercise regularly.
– Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits.
– Avoid or restrict alcohol intake and refrain from using illicit drugs.
– Be aware of persistent negative thoughts and self-criticism and try to replace them with positive thoughts.
– Congratulate yourself on your achievements.
Research has shown that regular physical exercise, meditation practice, a good and supportive network of friends and family, and positive thinking can ensure good mental health. Depression and other mental health disorders are common and treatable. However, many people end up suffering unnecessarily for long periods either because they are not aware, or because they hesitate to reach out for help. Understanding these issues, removing the stigma associated with them, and being supportive can help us manage them.
Reference: https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use