Warwick Busby 
Mental health has an enormous effect on daily life and should be seen as a crucial aspect of overall well-being. It can wreak havoc in relationships, careers and long-term goals if neglected.
Mental illnesses are all too prevalent within communities, families and workplaces, whether that means living next door to you, teaching your children at school or sitting in the cubicle beside you at work – or perhaps sitting next to them on church pews.
1. Learn to Say No
Saying no may be difficult, but setting healthy boundaries for yourself is crucial. Saying “yes” out of guilt or an illusion that you can “do it all” may lead to being overextended and unable to prioritize your mental wellbeing.
Example: Say, a family member asks you to babysit, but you already have plans with friends that weekend. Instead of declining, make sure that an alternative option is provided so they still feel included.
Your answer does not need to be justified when declining someone’s request; simply give yourself time and space to think before responding. People will appreciate the way in which you make choices that benefit yourself long-term; this can help build resilience and happiness when facing life’s various obstacles.
2. Take Time for Meditation
Establishing good self-care habits can help to maintain good mental health. These might include meditation, hobbies, healthy eating and sleeping patterns or exercise as well as spending time with loved ones and avoiding toxic people or situations.
Many mental illnesses are the result of stress, anxiety and depression caused by work, finances, family or relationship issues that are out of our control.
Meditation can be an effective way to reduce stress and improve your mood, by helping reduce negative thoughts and levels of inflammatory chemicals known as cytokines that contribute to depression. But meditation shouldn’t replace medical treatment; talk to your physician about its pros and cons as part of an overall plan; they may suggest specific programs or medication; in some instances they might refer you to therapists or counselors – though in many instances both options together will help manage mental illness symptoms more effectively.
3. Address Your Feelings
No matter who you are – natural feeler or someone who suppresses their emotions, understanding and expressing them in healthy ways is crucial for life. Set aside some time each day to observe your feelings, noting how they impact both physically and mentally. Be open-minded while exploring thoughts and emotions – try connecting with what’s inside.
Studies show the power of good relationships to benefit one’s mental health, with studies showing the value of social support to assist with life challenges. Take the time to call or visit friends, join communities of like-minded people or catch up with distant family members.
As much as mental health is recognized for its significance, it can still be challenging to prioritize its needs in the workplace. Employees may feel awkward discussing mental health concerns with their employers; however, this should not be taken as an excuse by businesses for disregarding employee wellbeing; all businesses have a duty of care toward their staff that includes helping them deal with mental health concerns.
4. Seek Help
If your mental health is experiencing strain, it is crucial that you seek assistance. There may be healthy coping tips available and professional treatment from psychiatrists or psychologists.
Mental illnesses are just as real as heart diseases or diabetes, yet due to stigma they may make people reluctant to seek treatment. Yet seeking therapy is an empowering experience and it is possible to treat mental illnesses through medication and therapy.
Talking with a professional can teach you healthier ways of interacting with others and improving your self-esteem, as well as help identify negative patterns of behavior and replace them with positive ones. Scheduling an appointment with a counselor is an invaluable way of prioritizing mental health care; take the first step now if needed! Remember: it’s best to act early to prevent an issue worsening, just like when treating an injury like sprained ankle. Also keep up with physical wellbeing!
