FEELING MENTALLY EXHAUSTED? DO THE FOLLOWING
Mrs Adeoye sat down with arms crossed and mind in a faraway place. She did not hear when her youngest daughter called her neither did she notice her presence until she shouted her name. The shout startled her and brought her back from her reverie. The shout also had her husband running from the bedroom to the sitting room.
'Omotayo, what is wrong? Why did you shout like that?'
'Dad, I am sorry but I was tapping mummy but she didn't answer until I shouted her name'
Mr Adeoye turned to face his wife.
'Dear, what is wrong? Why do you look as if your mind is far away?'
She sighed deeply and adjusted her gown as she stood up. She went to the window, parted the curtains and looked on to the streets facing their apartment.
'The situation of the country is enough to make someone think deeply. Tell me, why won't I think? Is it the way price of goods is skyrocketing or the fact that we can't even afford three square meals that is not worth thinking about?'.
Her husband walked over to her and placed his hands on her shoulders.
'I know the situation of the country is bad but you don't have to hurt yourself with such deep thoughts . Don't you know that this can affect your health negatively? Even your mental health is at stake if you keep thinking too much. It can also cause certain inflammatory diseases like hypertension if you stress yourself too much mentally?'.
'Hmmm'
'You know I was just reading this article I stumbled on healthyish blog on how to protect your mental health despite all that's happening around you. It's a good read, trust me. I will forward the link to you on Whatsapp so you can read and digest it.'.
'Thank you so much, my dear'.
With the situation of things around us and circumstances surrounding our society presently, it is easier to neglect our mental health and plunge into the pool of mental illnesses like depression, anxiety disorders and the likes. We often prioritize physical health but forget that our mental well-being is just as crucial as our mental health can affetct our physical health. Being in a poor mental state can predispose an individual to certain chronic inflammatory diseases like hypertension. Studies have shown the link between poor mental states and chronic inflammatory diseases. It is therefore expedient that ww prioritise our mental health and protect.There are various strategies you can incorporate into your daily life to protect and nurture your mental health. In this article, some effective ways to safeguard your mental well-being will be highlighted
1. Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is the foundation of good mental health. Create time for activities that you enjoy. Whether it's reading a book, taking a long bath, meditating, or simply enjoying a hobby, self-care helps you recharge and reduce stress.
2. Build a Support System: Support system is a network of family and friends that help you get through tough times. Social connections are essential for mental health. Cultivate meaningful relationships with friends and family. Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals who can provide emotional support. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed; therapists and counselors are valuable resources.
3. Manage Stress: Stress is a significant contributor to mental health issues. Learn stress-management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or yoga. Setting realistic goals, organizing your tasks, and practicing time management can also help reduce stress levels.
4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle : Physical and mental health are closely linked. Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Physical activity releases endorphins, which boost your mood, while a nutritious diet and quality sleep support cognitive function and emotional stability.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for managing your mental health. They help you stay grounded, increase self-awareness, and reduce negative thought patterns. Even a few minutes of daily practice can make a significant difference.
6. Limit Exposure to Negativity: We live in the age of social media and 24/7 news cycles where both negative and positive information circulate continuously. It is essential to control your exposure to negative information. Be mindful of the content you consume and take breaks from screens when necessary. Focus on positive and uplifting sources of information.
7. Set Boundaries: Establishing healthy boundaries in your personal and professional life is crucial. Learn to say no when necessary and communicate your needs clearly. Respect your own limits and prioritize your well-being.
8. Pursue Goals and Hobbies: Having a sense of purpose and pursuing your passions can boost your mental health. Set achievable goals and work towards them, whether they're related to your career, personal life, or hobbies. The satisfaction of accomplishment can improve your overall outlook.
9. Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable insights and coping strategies. Remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness
Protecting your mental health is an ongoing journey that requires attention and care. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can create a foundation for a healthier and more resilient mind. Prioritize self-care, build a support system, manage stress, and seek professional help when needed. Your mental well-being is worth the effort, and a healthier mind will enhance your overall quality of life.
NB:We are bio individuals which is to say not all size fits all.prioritizing yourself and your journey with the support and guidance of a health coach will further help in your progress and such a person would be able to get detailed information about themselves that could facilitate results.
