Let’s get one thing straight y’all: if you don’t have your mental health, you don’t have anything. A lot of people don’t consider or underestimate the importance of their mental well-being. It can often get forgotten about, among the hustle and bustle of your personal and professional life. But your mental health directly impacts how we handle stress, relate to others and build relationships, act in certain situations, and much more.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in every eight people are living with a mental health disorder like anxiety or depression, or a mental illness. This is around a whopping 970 million people world-wide. Support and friendship through community can go a long way when people are struggling internally.
While we’re seeing more and more organizations promote mental health awareness, a lot of people simply don’t feel comfortable seeking the help they need. What many folks don’t realize is that getting help should be seen as empowerment that will lead to self-improvement and growth. It’s hard to move up in the world when you’re feeling down in the dumps.
Raising mental health awareness
One of the best ways someone can raise awareness surrounding mental health within their community is through education. By learning about mental health issues, the barriers that people face, and the statistics, you can improve your understanding, which you can then share with others. Another super important way to raise mental health awareness in your community is by fostering an open dialogue with others.
Create a space where people can feel comfortable sharing their feelings and struggles. You can do this by sharing your experience first as this will build trust. Even if you aren’t dealing with mental health issues yourself, you’ve likely seen someone close to you struggle and have had to help them at their lowest moments. You’ll notice a sense of unity within your community and people will start to grow together.
Most importantly, the journey towards heightened mental health awareness starts with breaking down the shame, barriers, and stigma surrounding mental illness. Nobody should ever feel alone in their battle.
Strategies for building inner balance
Inner balance and resilience goes hand-in-hand — you’re the most powerful when you’re calm and grounded. Cultivating this sense of calmness can prove to be a difficult task, but there are several things you can do on a daily basis to help get you there.
- Meditate: We know it sounds boring. But we promise that using a meditation app or sitting solo in a quiet room for a few minutes each day can work wonders. Instead of thinking about all the things you have to accomplish that day, try to focus and clear your mind. Or focus on one single mantra that motivates and inspires you.
- Create supportive relationships: Having good friends or other strong social connections will mean that you won’t be alone when times get tough. In addition to support, it’s great to form a community with people you look up to as they can be a positive influence.
- Adopt a growth mindset: Being stagnant is no good. Believe that your talents and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. Try to view challenges as opportunities for personal growth, instead of scary hurdles. People who have a growth mindset are always open to feedback from others and are keen to hear alternative opinions. It’s about absorbing all you can from the people and world around you.
- Limit stress: This one is easier said than done, but if you can find healthy ways to deal with stressors, you’re gravy, baby! Managing stress positively, like by exercising or spending time in nature, can prevent its negative effects. When you are exposed to high levels of stress for an extended period of time, it can interfere with your digestive health, sleep, immune system, and of course, your mental well-being.
