By John
Having a sound mental health is more than a diagnosis. It is your overall psychological well-being; the way you feel about yourself and others as well as the ability to manage your feelings while dealing with every day activities.
Most times because of happenings around us and challenges we encounter; we do not give attention to our mental health. Interestingly, paying attention to our mental health improves our productivity, emotional health, boost our mood, and add to our overall enjoyment of life.
Here are ways to know you don’t value your mental health
- IF YOU DON’T VALUE YOURSELF
Not having a full recognition of your potentials and your abilities or not being optimistic will cause damage to your mental health. Research has shown that how you think about yourself can have powerful effect on how you feel. How we perceive ourselves matters; we can end up viewing experiences in a way that confirms this notion. Instead, we should practice using words that promote feelings of self-worth and personal power such as: “I am not a loser”, “I can be the best”, “I will make it”.
- WHEN YOU ARE BEING UNGRATEFUL
Gratitude has been clearly linked with improved well-being and mental health, as well as happiness. The best way to do this is to keep a note of those things that you are grateful for; let it fill your heart and bask in thankfulness for them. Always be in the mood of thanksgiving.
- FAILURE TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY
Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Make sure you eat nutritious meals, avoid unhealthy meals and habits, drink plenty of water, exercise, get enough rest; sleep and carry out regular check-ups.
- WHEN YOU SURROUND YOURSELF WITH NEGATIVE PEOPLE
Being around people with unhealthy values and bad morals will not improve your mental health instead it will make it worst. People with strong family or social connections are generally healthier than those who lacks support network. Make plans with supportive friends, or seek out activities where you can meet new people.
- NOT SEEKING FOR HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT
Seeking for help is a sign of strength not a weakness; it shows you are human and it is important to remember that treatment is effective. People who get appropriate care can recover from mental illness and addiction and lead full, rewarding lives.
- WHEN YOU SET UNREALISTIC GOALS
It is so funny how some people set unrealistic goals and this end up affecting their health. Always decide what you want to achieve career wise, academically; business wise and write down the steps you need to realize your goals. Aim high and be realistic.
- WHEN YOU DO NOT GIVE YOURSELF TO OTHERS
Giving yourself to others by volunteering your time or resources to help them accomplish a goal leaves you feeling good about yourself and this, in turn boosts your mental health.
- WHEN YOU FAIL TO DEAL WITH STRESS
Dealing with stress or practicing coping skills can help improve your mental health. Try stress reducer activities like taking a walk, laughing, playing with a loved one or pet, exercising. Always remember to smile and see the humour in life. Research has shown that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body and reduce stress.
