Prioritizing Mental Health

 

We spend hours focusing on enhancing our external appearances,; at the gym sculpting our bodies, standing in front of the mirror making ourselves up. And that’s fine—because looks matter, right? Or do they? Sure, being well-groomed has its perks, like boosting confidence and improving likability.  

But let’s face it: how often do we take care of our mental health with the same dedication?  

Mental health deserves just as much attention as our physical appearance. Yet many of us neglect it. According to the World Health Organization (WHO)

"Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio-economic development."World Health Organization (WHO)

Therefore, mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It’s not just about being free from disorders—it’s about being able to cope with life’s challenges, work productively, and contribute to our community.  

However, external stressors like inflation, rising crime rates, and social pressures make it easy to spiral into states of anxiety or stress. And what do we often do instead of addressing these emotions? We turn to negative coping strategies—excessive social media use, binge-watching shows, or other forms of distraction that only mask the problem.  

Take a bad day at work, for example. Maybe you disagreed with a coworker. Even if you vented to someone about it, how often do you take the time to truly process what happened? For most of us, the answer is “rarely.”  

When we don’t resolve these emotions, they pile up in our minds like clutter in an unorganized room. Over time, this emotional buildup can take a toll on our mental and even physical health. Processing emotions doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as talking things through with a friend or therapist. Yet many of us push it aside, hoping it will magically resolve itself.  

Instead of facing our emotions, we often fall into habits that only provide temporary relief. Some people turn to alcohol to numb their feelings. Others drown themselves in music or lose hours scrolling through social media. While these strategies might feel comforting in the moment, they rarely address the root cause of the problem.  

So, what’s the alternative? Healthy coping strategies are essential for mental well-being. Activities like journaling, meditation, exercise, or seeking professional help can help us process emotions in a healthier way. Taking a proactive approach to mental health ensures we’re better equipped to handle tough times, both personally and professionally.  

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, if not more so. In a world filled with stressors and distractions, it’s crucial to take the time to reflect, process, and nurture our minds. By prioritizing mental health, we not only improve our personal lives but also create a foundation for professional , personal and social growth.  

The next time you look in the mirror or hit the gym, take a moment to ask yourself: “Have I done enough for my mental health today?” Because true strength comes from within.  

Quote of the day

"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will."  Mahatma Ganthi