Let’s Talk About Mental Health

It is very important to be able to talk about mental health issues. I feel like a lot of people ignore their mental health because they focus on things that they think are more “important.” Our mental health is a crucial matter to speak about throughout every stage of life.

The World Health Organization defines the term “mental health” as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his, her, or their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his, her or their own community.” Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social-wellbeing. 

There are a number of different mental health disorders that exist. The most common are anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Being diagnosed with a mental health disorder is not a sign of weakness. Coming to terms with it and being able to work and get through it will help. 

Every person is different when it comes to their mental health because we all cope with experiences differently. We cannot help what stresses us out, causes anxiety, makes us sad, etc. We cannot control our thoughts or stop ourselves from overthinking. Sometimes things become too much, and we need a break. It is okay to take a step back and make time for yourself. Make yourself and your mental health a priority. 

It Is Okay To Ask For Help 

It is crucial to seek help when you are not feeling 100% yourself. When you feel sad or lonely, what do you do? Do you call someone to talk it out? Do you write down your thoughts in a notebook or journal? Do you keep things to yourself? All of those things are okay. Again, we all get through things differently. IT IS OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP WHEN YOU NEED SOMEONE. There is always going to be someone there to talk and for you even if it may not feel like there is. Reaching out to people can be tough. I personally think a lot of people keep to themselves for the fear of being judged. There is no reason to feel ashamed about the way you are feeling. Sometimes you can’t help how you feel. The littlest things may make someone upset, and THAT IS OKAY! I promise, letting off steam and getting out of your head will make you feel better. 

Treat EVERYONE with Kindness, Including Yourself

I hope this post will inspire you to pay more attention to your own and others’ mental health.  You never know what is going on in someone else's life. Be kind to yourself and others. Stay tuned for next week's post, where I will talk more in detail about who you should talk to when you need someone, therapy/counseling, and other resources. Have a great week, and happy spring!