World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10th to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce the stigma surrounding them, and promote overall mental well-being. In this post, we’ll explore the significance of World Mental Health Day and delve into the cause of mental health, how to check your mental health, including how to assess your own mental health, seeking therapy in South Africa, and the benefits of meditation in maintaining and improving your mental well-being.
World Mental Health Day:
World Mental Health Day was established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992. Its primary objective is to promote mental health advocacy and awareness globally. Each year, the day focuses on a specific theme related to mental health issues. The themes vary from year to year but are always centered on raising awareness and reducing stigma. This year, the theme is “Mental health is a universal human right,” to improve knowledge, raise awareness, and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.
Guarding Your Emotional Well-Being: 4 Vital Mental Health Considerations
1. Accumulated stress
Living a life under prolonged stress and pressure often leads to accumulated stress, which can affect both working adults and students. Many people may not be aware of it, but it can be observed through changes in both emotions and lifestyle, such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, feeling restless, and experiencing sadness, among other symptoms. If left untreated for an extended period, it can even lead to physical health issues such as heart problems, high blood pressure, migraines, and gastric disorders.
2. Burnout Syndrome
This issue is becoming increasingly prevalent among office workers. It is a condition characterized by a psychological shift resulting from accumulated stress. It has now been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a condition that can have severe consequences and disrupt one’s life if not properly managed by medical professionals. The causes of this can vary and include workplace social dynamics, unfair organizational systems, and overcommitment to tasks beyond necessity. These factors can erode one’s mental well-being to the point where there is a lack of motivation at work, leading to decreased job performance. If left untreated for an extended period, it can increase the risk of depression.
3. Low self-esteem
This problem arises from comparing oneself to others in various aspects, including lifestyle, work responsibilities, and even external appearance. In today’s society, this has become increasingly common due to excessive exposure to social media and getting caught up in the idealized images that people portray. Often, individuals forget to consider that these are just fragments of others’ lives and not the whole picture. Intensive self-comparisons can lead to a diminished sense of self-worth and dissatisfaction with one’s own life or self. It may even contribute to conditions like depression or, in severe cases, suicidal thoughts or actions.
4. Depression
If you feel down, don’t want to do anything, lose interest in activities that used to bring you joy, or if these feelings escalate to self-harm or thoughts of suicide, these are symptoms of depression. It’s considered a serious medical condition caused by an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, affecting emotions, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and even physical health. It’s crucial to seek prompt and appropriate medical attention from a specialist. It’s important for those around someone experiencing depression not to view them as weak, incapable, or overly negative. Instead, offer support and encouragement to seek professional help.
How to Check Your Mental Health:
Assessing your mental health is a crucial step in maintaining your overall well-being. Here are some simple ways to check your mental health:
a. Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Are you experiencing excessive stress, anxiety, or sadness? Are you struggling to manage your daily activities? These signs may indicate that you need to prioritize your mental health.
b. Self-Assessment Tools: There are various online mental health self-assessment tools and questionnaires that can help you gauge your mental well-being. They can provide insights into your mental state and suggest whether professional help may be necessary.
Some mental health checking websites.
psycom.net
Screening.mhanational.org
thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au
c. Talk to Someone: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor and have an open conversation about your feelings. Sometimes, sharing your thoughts and concerns can be a valuable first step in understanding your mental health.
Obtaining Therapy or Counseling Services in South Africa:
Begin by visiting a nearby mental health institution, doctor, or clinical psychiatrist.
The healthcare professional will:
- Evaluate and assess your condition.
- Provide you with a referral letter.
Proceed to apply for admission at a mental health institution and submit the following documents:
- The referral letter you received from the healthcare professional.
- Your written consent for treatment.
- A copy of your identification document (ID).
Mental health help line – 0800 12 13 14
How Does Meditation Prevent Mental Health Problems and Improve Well-being?
Meditation is a powerful practice that can significantly benefit your mental health. Here’s how it can help:
a. Stress Reduction: Meditation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, can reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and self-awareness. Regular practice can help you manage daily stressors effectively.
b. Improved Emotional Well-being: Meditation fosters emotional resilience and enhances your ability to cope with difficult emotions. It can also increase feelings of happiness and contentment.
c. Better Focus and Clarity: Meditation enhances concentration and mental clarity, allowing you to manage your thoughts and emotions more effectively.
d. Reduced Symptoms of Depression: Some studies suggest that meditation may alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.
Conclusion:
On World Mental Health Day and throughout the year, it’s vital to prioritize your mental well-being. Assessing your mental health, seeking professional help when needed, and incorporating practices like meditation into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your mental health, ultimately leading to a happier and healthier life. Remember that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.
Disclaimer: If you are experiencing a mental health condition, it is essential to consult with a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and therapy. Meditation alone may not suffice, as certain mental conditions involve neurotransmitter imbalances that require medication as part of the treatment.
Reference :
Admission to a mental health institution | South African Government (www.gov.za)
10 ตุลาคม วันสุขภาพจิตโลก World Mental Health Day (brighttv.co.th)
World Mental Health Day 2023 – Mental health is a universal human right (who.int)
#WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #WellBeing #StayHealthy
