Highlighting Mental Health: Making it a Priority for World Mental Health Day 2023 - by Nidhi Kalta
Mental health is no longer a taboo subject but a global priority, given equal importance as physical health. The theme for this year's World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th, is "Mental health is a universal human right."
Everyone has a role in creating a society that takes mental health seriously. Maintaining mental health requires regular attention, similar to caring for a garden. Just as a garden needs weeding to remove negative thoughts, so does the mind.
Positive thinking and self-care are essential for mental well-being. Practicing self-care routines tailored to individual needs can help nurture mental well-being and lead to a more vibrant and fulfilling life. These routines may include getting 7-8 hours of sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, practicing mindfulness or meditation, maintaining social connections, and fostering positive thinking.
Journaling and relaxation techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can also help manage stress and anxiety. Another effective method is practicing gratitude daily, which further enhances resilience and happiness.
Seeking professional help plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Mental health professionals possess the expertise and tools to guide individuals in addressing mental health challenges. They can provide personalized support and strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness-based stress reduction, which are effective for managing anxiety and other mental health issues.
Mental health professionals can help identify stress triggers, develop coping plans, and offer therapeutic interventions that adjust to the person’s unique needs and circumstances. Moreover, professional support can be accessed conveniently through in-person or online therapy, making it easier to maintain consistent care.
Asking for help with mental health issues is a sign of strength, not a weakness. It represents an investment in a brighter and more resilient future. Addressing mental health challenges with the help of a professional can lead to a more balanced and functional life.
By breaking the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health, we take a small but significant step towards addressing mental health issues. It's important to encourage people to seek professional help when dealing with mental health problems.
In conclusion, combining self-care practices with professional guidance fosters a healthier, more positive mind by building emotional resilience, improving coping skills, and reducing chronic stress or anxiety. Let us strive to make mental health a universal human right and create a society where everyone feels empowered to seek help and care for their mental well-being.
Science and health-and-wellness, including mental health, can benefit significantly from regular self-care routines and professional support. The former, tailored to individual needs, can help nurture mental well-being, while the latter, provided by mental health professionals, offers personalized strategies and interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness-based stress reduction, to manage mental health challenges more effectively.
