Mental health challenge

In many cultures mental health can be a taboo topic to talk about. It is mainly due to misconceptions but it does not have to be that way. Talking about mental health is important for our own wellbeing, it can improve our relationships and break the stigma.In this video Bile meets with his friend and shares his perspectives and experience about mental health.

Ever tried to talk about mental health with a friend, a colleague or closed one? What was your experience?

Talk About Mental Health

Mental health is about how we are, feel, and think. It is also about our ability cope and deal with ups and downs that happen in our life. The meaning of mental health and wellbeing differ from one person to another. It doesnt always stay the same. It can change as circumstances change and as you navigate through different stages in life. The external environment also has an impact on your mental health.

There is often a tendency to mix mental health with mental illness. But the two are not the same. Mental health means that you:

  • Realise your potential
  • Deal and cope with life
  • Are able to interact and express your feelings
  • Play a meaningful part in your family, workplace and community

We are well and feel good when we :

  • Are surrounded by positive and supportive people  (family, friends, partners, etc)
  • Feel acknowledged, valued and loved
  • Meet new meaningful people, we love and feel compassion
  • Are aware of our emotions , we can talk about our feelings
  • Are able to identify a difficult situation, and how to cope with it
  • Take care of ourselves, our home and environment
  • Are healthy and have a balanced regular diet
  • Are active and exercise
  • Are able to have a positive approach to life

How Do I Strengthen My Mental Health

  • Make sure that you have a regular routine in place
  • Rest and have a good quality sleep
  • Be open to explore and learn new experiences.
  • Include a healthy and nutritious diet in your daily routine
  • Keep moving and exercise regularly
  • Learn to relax, and practice pause by taking regular short breaks throughout the day
  • Do something you are good at or that you enjoy. For example being out with your friends, painting, sports, cooking, fishing etc
  • Keep in touch with your friends and family
  • Care for others and be helpful. This will bring you closer to people important to you… You will feel valued and will boost your self-esteem… And why not share your skills by volunteering?
  • Listen to others, and talk about your feelings
  • Be you. Be proud of who you are. Acknowledge the things you may not be good at, but also recognise and focus on the things you are good at.
  • If changes are needed in your life. Dont be too hard on yourself. Take small steps towards change.

Reflections and Thoughts

  • How do you strengthen and take care of your wellbeing?
  • Write 3 things you are good at doing
  • What kind of support do you feel you need at the moment?
  • What do you view as important for your wellbeing?
  • How comfortable are you talking about your emotions? Who do you talk to?
  • What kind of positive and negative changes have you recently experienced in your life?
  • How do you manage your daily routine? Do you have a lot to take care of ( ie children, work, studies, family, relatives) ?
  • How do you get through unexpected events or crisis that happen in your life?

Links

What is mental health?

https://mieli.fi/en/home/mental-health/what-mental-health

What is mental health? Video by Mental Health at Work

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0zJGDokyWQ&t=34s