Mental health – What it is, problems and care to be taken

Mental health – What it is, problems and care to be taken

While we shelter at home in the name of physical health, we must also prioritize mental health. You need to take a deep breath in the midst of chaos.

Have you ever thought about mental health? Firstly, we are living in a very delicate moment in the history of humanity. Definitely, everything that is happening will have a chapter in the history books. But the truth is that it is not easy to experience historical events. We are constantly adrift, subject to an uncertain future that we have to ignore and just move forward.

Despite this, “moving on” took on a new meaning. This time moving forward means stopping everything, not going out on the street and locking yourself in the house. We need to get on with life, but keep going without leaving the place. While we fight to save lives, something else is not being spared: mental health.

When we are banned from our routine, our social life is interrupted and we are forced to be confined at home, without any time estimate, it is inevitable that our mental health will suffer. An issue that until recently was seen as a “fresh thing” is now gaining more and more space in debates and social policies. But first, a question: what, exactly, is mental health?

What is mental health

Well, according to the World Health Organization, mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual is able to use their own abilities, recover from routine stress, be productive and contribute to their community. But we know very well that it is much more complex than that. There is a large web of questions surrounding this profound and heterogeneous problem.

Something that encompasses the way we relate to our friends, our closeness to family, our performance at work and, most importantly, our view of ourselves. And because it is so complex, mental health problems are taking over a larger portion of society every day and spreading uncontrollably. That is why it is so necessary that we know how to identify when our mental health is being negatively affected. So that we can treat it with due care.

Mental health issues

It is estimated that 30 out of every 100 people suffer, or will suffer, at one point or another in their lives, from mental health problems and that around 12 have a serious mental illness. Depression and anxiety are the most common mental illnesses. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict when someone will be affected by it. Although, according to some researchers, diseases such as depression, alcoholism, TDH and others are linked to a genetic factor.

In any case, even those who have no family history are prone to having problems with their mental health, which is why it is important to always be careful. Not just now, while in quarantine, but throughout life.

Mental health care

Don’t spend all your free time on social media

It’s really very tempting, the memes on Instagram, the wonderful photos and people’s stories speed up time and before we realize it, hours have already passed. But it is very important to find other forms of entertainment. Take up other hobbies and give your eyes and, even more so, your brain a little rest. This is because we are often in contact with so much news, so much information, that we end up overloading our minds.

Therefore, it is essential that we look for happiness outside the cell phone screen. If necessary, organize your time and set aside a few hours for something specific. So in these moments, you will be away from technology. Whether it’s reading a book, or cooking a different dish, painting, drawing… or who knows, dedicating a little time to those you love.

Meditate

Meditation is an ancient technique that affects both our physical and mental health. After so many years, forms of meditation have been developed for specific problems, such as anxiety, bad thoughts, stress, etc.

In this way, by keeping our mind a little quieter and more silent, we are able to manage everyday situations coherently. Negative emotions decrease and an argument or a traffic stop have much less of an impact on us. Bedtime really becomes a time to relax. In fact, meditation teaches us to control our thoughts, in order to separate what is good and bad.

Remember what’s important to you

Sometimes, because of routine, stress or obligations, we end up forgetting what we really love and want. For example, that dream that you always put off until later but never really managed to dedicate yourself to.

Reflect on your actions and the life you are maintaining. Review your goals! Make sure you’re doing whatever you’re doing because you really want to. And not because life forced you or because others want you to.

But most importantly, know how to deal with frustration! Not everything will always go as you plan. Despite our plans and all our dreams, there are many things that are beyond our control. So, remember not to blame yourself and, above all, be grateful! Even though everything seems to be falling apart, we need to see the beauty in life.

Practice physical exercise and maintain a balanced diet

According to experts, when we take care of our body, we are automatically also taking care of our mind. The two are directly connected. That is why it is so necessary to exercise frequently and have a balanced diet. This doesn’t mean you have to go on a diet or stop eating what you like. Just make sure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals our bodies need.

What’s more, it is scientifically proven to stimulate the release of the happiness hormone – dopamine – in our body.

Allow yourself to be a little selfish

Think about yourself. What do you like? What do you want? What’s good for you? Leave in your life only what brings positivity. Allow yourself to do something that brings you happiness often.

Also, stay away from toxic people. We often try so hard to maintain relationships that they aren’t even worth it. Or we sacrifice ourselves for people who would never do the same for us! Try not to worry about unsolvable problems or worry excessively. Don’t feel bad about distancing yourself, you come first.

People generally create this false impression that taking care of yourself is an act of selfishness. But in reality, it is an act of love.

You, and only you, really know what it is you really need. So, if you feel the need to disconnect from everything and everyone, don’t hesitate, even if it’s just for a few hours or a weekend.

And in this quarantine, this is essential. Don’t blame yourself if you’re not being “useful”. Allow yourself to do what your mind asks you to do right now.

After all, did you like our article? Read also: Sleeping with a spoon is good for your health! – 5 proven benefits.

Sources: adeb, vittude, pensesus.

Featured image: softhair