“Health is Wealth”
When you come across this common saying, the first
thing that comes to your mind might be to live a healthy and disease-free life.
But how many of us even consider our mental health along with it?
“Prioritize your mental peace first!” “You overthink too
much” “Just take a break from your routine” “Relax! You have got this.” You
might have heard of these at some point in your life without even realizing the
social stigma it carries. It has always been a taboo in India to talk about
mental health since we are taught to hide out our emotions and feelings in
front of other people. To bust the taboo about mental health and to educate
people to prioritize their mental health over anything else, the month of May
is celebrated as Mental Health Awareness Month all over the world.
Mental Health Awareness Month was first celebrated in
the USA by the Mental Health America Organization in 1949 to create awareness
about mental health among people.
Mental Health Awareness Month - Significance
In this rapidly evolving digital age, even the
simplest of activities can feel like an uphill battle for everyone. To
eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health, people must first accept that
it is normal to experience fear, stress, and other negative feelings. Once you
allow yourself to accept the situation as it is, you will be better able to
decide whether you just need to talk to a close friend or seek professional
treatment.
Apart from physical health that affected many people due
to Covid-19, the pandemic and the subsequent lockdown has taken a toll on our
mental well-being for many of us. So, it is important to make your mental health a top priority.
You should also know that mental health problems do
not have any age limits. It is a fallacy that someone in their teens cannot be
experiencing mental illness, just as it is a fallacy that someone in their 80s
is perfectly mentally healthy. Protecting one's mental health is crucial at any
age. Neglecting one's mental health might have negative effects on one's
physical well-being. It can lead to a variety of negative outcomes, including
the desire for isolation, persistent emotions of fear and social anxiety. Poor
mental health can have far-reaching consequences, from causing long-term
physical health problems to wreaking havoc in personal relationships and
causing difficulties in the workplace. This is why it is important to talk
about your mental health and recognize when you need help.
Instead of bottling up your feelings, it is best to open
it to someone- it might be your friend, a family member or anyone you trust. If
you live in a place where it is hard to talk to them in person, you can
still connect with them through a phone call, a video call, or a texting app.
Firstly, it is important to learn how to say
"No" to things you do not want to do or do not care about. Never
worry about hurting others because your mental health matters more than
anything else.
Get your ‘me’ time often! Even if you have a very
hectic schedule, make sure you schedule some time for relaxation and
rejuvenation.
When you are feeling overwhelmed, a therapist is there
to listen to your concerns and help you sort them out. A mental health
counsellor is someone who can help persons who are emotionally or
psychologically distressed.
There is nothing to feel embarrassed about or hide anything from your therapist. You may consult with a qualified and certified psychologist or a mental wellness therapist even from the comfort of your homes.
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments is crucial for those affected by this condition.
The symptoms of bipolar disorder are the dramatic shifts in mood and energy levels. During manic episodes, individuals may experience:
On the other hand, depressive episodes are marked by:
The severity and duration of these mood episodes can vary greatly from person to person, and the patterns can be unpredictable.
The exact causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood, but research suggests that it is a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Some of the potential factors that may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder include:
It is important to note that bipolar disorder is a complex condition, and the interplay of these factors can vary from person to person.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for bipolar disorder. The primary approach typically involves a combination of:
It is crucial for individuals with bipolar disorder to consult a psychiatrist and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and symptoms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with bipolar disorder, remember that you are not alone. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and live a fulfilling life.
In recent years, mental health has emerged as a major worry for many people. Ever wondered why? The reasons may differ, and the list continues, such as personal relationships, work-related concerns, and financial restraints. So, to highlight the importance of mental health, World Mental Health Day is marked every year on October 10th. This year's theme centers on our mental health at work. Problems are inevitable in everyone's lives, especially in our workplace, and might have an impact on their mental health. Everything depends on how we handle it, and in this article, we have provided you with three random activities to increase your mindfulness and maintain a pleasant mental wellbeing.
The theme for this year, "Mental Health at Work," emphasizes the vital connection between mental health and our workplaces. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that safe, healthy working settings can safeguard mental health, but unhealthy surroundings, such as stigma, discrimination, and poor working conditions, can pose serious hazards.
WHO reports that since 60% of the total world’s population is at work, urgent action is required to support mental health at work. And that includes, involving workers, employers, and everyone at work have knowledge about mental health conditions in the course of decisions.
Now, let us explore the three random, simple, and effective exercises that can be integrated into your daily routine to help improve your mental well-being and potentially contribute to a healthy working environment and lifestyle.
This mindfulness exercise helps you to focus yourself on the present moment by involving all your senses: Sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch. This aids in stress relief, improved focus, and improved emotional regulation.
How to do it:
By incorporating this technique into your daily routine, it can help calm your nervous system, offer support to those with PTSD, help ease social anxiety, and assist with grounding.
A routine activity that can transform into a mindfulness exercise is Mindful Walking. It offers numerous benefits like reducing blood pressure, providing better sleep, managing stress, and so on.
How to do it:
This way of practicing our routine activity helps to improve our mindfulness and is beneficial for both physical and mental health.
This exercise can help release tension that you may not be realizing, and also promote awareness of physical sensations.
How to do it:
Regular practice of the body scan can improve your ability to recognize and release physical tension, leading to better overall relaxation and stress management.
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024, remember that mindfulness is a skill that improves with practice. Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, both at work and in your personal life, can significantly enhance your mental well-being. While these mindfulness exercises can be powerful tools for maintaining mental health, it is important to recognize when you might need additional support. Consider consulting with a mental wellness therapist online for personalized guidance and strategies tailored to your specific needs. Start small, be patient with yourself, and gradually build your mindfulness muscles. By investing in your mental health, you contribute to a healthier future for yourself and potentially a more positive work environment for all.
In today's fast-paced world, navigating the challenges of work, relationships, and daily responsibilities can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. However, taking proactive steps to nurture your mental well-being can make a significant difference in your overall quality of life. In this blog, we'll explore five effective ways to improve your mental health, providing you with practical tips and insights to help you lead a happier, healthier life. Whether you're dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or just looking to boost your mood, these five simple yet powerful ways can help with your journey to better mental health.
Sleep is the unsung hero of mental health, and during those precious hours of sleep, our brain absorbs emotions, consolidates memories, and replenishes for the coming day. To maximize the benefits of sleep, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, including weekends. Create a peaceful evening ritual that includes a warm bath, light reading, and gentle stretches. Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime, and minimize caffeine and alcohol consumption, particularly in the evening. Aim for 7-9 hours of good sleep per night. If you are constantly unable to sleep, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia.
Exercise isn't just for physical fitness; it is also a powerful mood booster and stress reliever. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, improve cognitive function, enhance sleep quality, and boost energy levels. And the good news is that you do not have to become a fitness freak to gain these benefits. Begin with activities you enjoy, like
Aim to complete at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Remember that consistency trumps intensity when it comes to mental health benefits.
Having meaningful interactions is essential for maintaining mental wellness. To develop your social relationships, connect with friends and family on a regular basis, even if it is just a quick text or phone call. Join clubs or groups that interest you, volunteer in your community, or try therapy or support groups if you're having trouble connecting. Remember, quality is more important than quantity. So, concentrate on making a few deep, meaningful connections rather than maintaining a large social network.
Gratitude is more than just a buzzword; it is an effective technique for shifting the way you feel. Regular gratitude practice can lead to increased happiness, reduced symptoms of depression, improved sleep quality, and increased resilience to stress.
Make gratitude a daily habit:
Gratitude is not about disregarding life's difficulties; it is about finding balance and perspective in both the good and the bad.
Research shows that learning new skills can help your psychological well-being by boosting self-confidence and self-esteem, developing a feeling of purpose, and helping to connect with others.
Even if you think you don't have enough time or don't need to learn new things, there are numerous ways to incorporate learning into your life. You could try some of the following like:
Here are some signs that might indicate it is time to consider therapy:
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms consistently, it might be beneficial to consult a mental wellness therapist. They can provide specialized support tailored to your unique needs, helping you navigate challenges and work towards improved mental well-being.
Seeking professional help has never been more convenient. At HealthSy, we have simplified the process of connecting with mental health experts. Our platform allows you to browse and select a mental wellness therapist that best suits your needs and preferences. The best part? You can access high-quality mental health support without leaving your home.
Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, HealthSy makes it easy to get the support you deserve. Take control of your mental well-being today – book a session with a qualified mental wellness therapist and start your journey towards a healthier mind, all from the comfort and privacy of your own space.
Eating disorders can affect people at any stage of
their lives. Individuals undergoing emotional distress may unknowingly develop
unhealthy eating habits, resulting in negative impacts on their overall
well-being. The prevalence of eating disorders has substantially increased on a
global scale, from 3.4% to 7.8%. Therefore, it is essential to address this
issue early to help individuals recognize the signs and symptoms that can
impact their overall health.
An eating disorder is a mental health issue defined by
abnormal eating behavior that affects individuals' physical and mental health.
It can be treatable, but if left untreated, the eating disorder may lead to
serious complications.
The development of an eating disorder can be
influenced by various factors, such as
Understanding eating disorders is crucial for
providing the right support to those affected. These disorders come in various
forms, each unique to the individual experiencing them. Here are some common
eating disorders:
Individuals with this eating disorder have a fear of
gaining weight; they constantly strive to become extremely thin. Thus, they
will severely restrict their food intake and exercise excessively. Common
symptoms of anorexia nervosa include:
Bulimia Nervosa, also known as bulimia, is a disorder
in which a person engages in episodes of binging, during which one eats a large
amount of food and then purges (self-induced vomiting or exercising excessively
to get rid of the extra calories). It typically begins in late teens or early
adulthood. Symptoms include:
Binge eating is more like Bulimia. Typically,
individuals with binge eating disorder consume large amounts of food
frequently, but they do not attempt to purge the calories afterward. Instead,
they often experience discomfort and may struggle with feelings of shame,
regret, guilt, or depression. Symptoms of binge eating disorder include:
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, also known
as ARFID, is a condition where individuals avoid certain foods or have severely
restricted eating habits. ARFID can occur in people of any age, and the
symptoms can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
Pica is a condition in which some people have cravings
for non-food items, which include paper, soap, paint, chalk, or ice. It affects
people of all genders and ages; however, it is most commonly seen in pregnant
women, children, and people who have developmental disabilities such as autism.
Untreated Pica can result in serious health consequences, including infections,
choking, and intestinal blockages.
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa,
and binge eating disorders, can pose significant threats to one's physical
health. These may include:
Individuals experiencing eating issues should seek
help and support from professionals. Ignoring the issue can lead to serious
consequences.
Every individual with an eating
disorder requires a personalized and tailored care plan. The treatment plan may
sometimes involve a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Finding the
right healthcare professional is crucial to ensure that the treatment plan is
effective and addresses the specific needs of the individual.
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects an individual’s life as well as the lives of people around them. This severity comes from the fact that it is chronic and can't be completely cured, but worry not, it can be treated using various medications that are available to alleviate its severity.
Generally, people with schizophrenia will incur delusions and
hallucinations, disconnecting from reality. This illness has the potential to affect
how a person thinks, feels, and acts, which is why it requires immediate and
effective medical attention from a psychiatrist or a psychologist.
Now, in
this article let us get to know about schizophrenia symptoms in detail so
that it can be diagnosed and treated at the earliest.
Keep
reading!
Many people
with schizophrenia don't realize they have it as the symptoms differ from
person to person and usually, it starts showing up in early adulthood. These
symptoms might be more intense at first but often become less severe as the
person gets older.
Now, let's
look at some of the symptoms of schizophrenia in more detail.
Categories
of Schizophrenia
The two
categories of schizophrenia include the following:
Positive Schizophrenia
symptoms are the unusual symptoms that arise when a person gets strange
feelings and thoughts. These are commonly called psychotic symptoms.
Experiencing these symptoms is the most common part of schizophrenia.
Negative Schizophrenia
symptoms include the lack of absence in the feelings that affect the normal
functioning in people. For instance, an individual might lose interest in being
active or appear to avoid expressing their emotions. The list below
shows some cases of negative symptoms:
Delusions
are false beliefs that a person firmly holds onto despite evidence to the
contrary. These beliefs are often irrational and can't be explained by cultural
or religious norms. Delusions can take various forms, such as paranoid
delusions (believing someone is out to harm them), grandiose delusions
(believing they have exceptional abilities or importance), or somatic delusions
(believing their body is diseased or altered).
This typical
schizophrenia symptom can bring problems in a person’s relationships, work life,
family, etc., and must be treated effectively to avoid any critical circumstances.
A
hallucination is a sensory perception that seems real but is created by the
mind rather than by external stimuli. Furthermore, individuals experiencing
this schizophrenia symptom often find it more disturbing and
irritable affecting their daily lives. There are various methods of
experiencing hallucinations that occur in any of the five senses—sight,
hearing, taste, touch, or smell, but hearing voices is found to be the most
prevalent one for many individuals.
A person
may speak and think unusually, bouncing from one topic to another. As a result,
it could be challenging for others to understand what the
affected person is saying. There may also be issues with memory and the
ability to comprehend and use knowledge.
This could
show up in a lot of different ways, from acting like a child or being irritable
all the time. Things are hard to do when behavior isn't aimed at a goal.
Behaviors can include - not following directions, having the wrong or strangest
posture, not responding at all, or moving around a lot for no reason.
Because of
all these Schizophrenia symptoms, you may:
For schizophrenia, it's important to consult a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
Summing Up
If you're
concerned that someone you love or know might have schizophrenia symptoms, you
should communicate with that person about it. You can't compel someone to get
professional help, but you can support and help them to do so
by finding or suggesting to consult with a doctor immediately.
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