Why is it important to take care of your mental health

July 4, 2023
Health

“You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.”
— Buddha

Looking after our mental health is one of the key aspects of overall well-being because it affects all aspects of our life including physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and social health. Let us understand through this article why it is important to have good mental health.

What is Mental Health?

The World Health Organization defines Mental Health as

“a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a contribution to her or his community.”

So, Mental Health is about how a person thinks, behaves, copes, and feels. When there is a disturbance in thinking, behavior, energy, or emotion that make it difficult to cope with the ordinary demands of life, then it is considered to be a form of Mental Illness.

Although in the past few decades, the general perception of Mental Illness has improved, there is a stigma associated with it that people are ashamed to consult a doctor and get proper treatment. There are many reasons behind it mostly, it is from the lack of understanding, proper education, and the negative beliefs towards it.

How to Improve One’s Mental Health

It is important to take care of your mental health because it determines how you handle stress and make choices. Many small habits can have a positive impact on one’s mental health.

Get high-quality sleep: Disrupted sleep can lead to poor mental health. In order to have good quality sleep, have a hygienic sleep routine. Sleep and wake up at the same time. Avoid caffeine after 4pm and make your bedroom a clutter-free and relaxed space.
No Screentime: Cut back on social media because there is an unconscious comparison of other people’s life which leads to stress, anxiety, and depression. Turn off your social media notifications and limit screen time to at least two hours before you sleep.
Connect with other people: Build meaningful relationships for they are vital to your well-being.
Be physically active. Move your body- be it by going to the gym, taking your dog for a walk, dancing, or going for a hike.
Eat nutrient-rich food: Avoid too much junk food and focus on mindful eating. Understand what’s on your plate each time you sit down to eat and make sure that it is a balanced diet with carbs, protein, fruits, and vegetables.
It is okay not to be okay: Learn how to take it easy. You needn’t have the hustle mindset always. Take rest when your body feels like it. Get adequate sunlight. Smell the flowers. Have a cup of coffee from your nearest cafe. Enjoy the present.
Reach out to a friend or professional when you don’t feel okay: If you feel frequently agitated or have experienced a traumatic event and want to talk to someone, do not hold back. Right professional support is a great way to calm your nerves.