Let's break mental health stigma

Many of the world days or national days that have always crept into our lives and social media calendars are just for fun. The real messages lost over time. Today is World Health Mental Day, the only one day where people tell you it is okay to open up about your feelings and struggles but then belittles you when you finally do it.

your mental health matters

In India, over 90 million country’s populations suffer from some form of mental disorder. Today 1 in 4 people suffer from a mental health problem. This year has had an impact on every single one of us, its left scars, pushed us to our limits with the ongoing pandemic, nation-wide lockdown, loneliness or whatever it may be. 2020 is the year to talk openly about Mental Health and break the stigma to get help, you do not need to pretend you are okay. It is the high time we understand “it is okay to not be okay”.

Few days back, I met an old friend of mine and I was dazed to hear she is seeing a psychiatrist. That moment made me realize the life people live on social media is so different from their real life. Pretending to be okay, may soothe others but your life is not about soothing others it is about your mental health and peace.

Make sure you check-in with your family and friends regularly, encourage those who need to talk, hear them out, do not misguide them by saying “But you don’t look depressed, it's nothing”. They may be ashamed, embarrassed, or afraid to talk about it aloud as our society hasn't normalized it, offer your help and let them know that you care and no matter what you’ll always be there for them.

Here are some tips you can live by each day:

1. Talk about your feelings- talking and pouring your heart out is the best therapy which can help you stay in good mental health. I know sometimes it may not be easy to communicate, try connecting with friends and family members you trust.

2. Ask for help- asking for help is the bravest move you can make; it never means you are weak. Never feel shy to seek out help from our loved ones, they are there for you.

3. Accept who you are- prioritizing yourself and loving yourself for who you are would always give you immense pleasure. We are all different. Nobody is perfect and nobody can be you is your superpower.

4. Care for others- I sent a mail to my friend addressing I will always be there for you and it made her day. When you cannot be physical there try to connect them virtually. It costs nothing but can mean everything for them.

5. Eat healthy- skipping meals and having improper diets will often lead you to pain, to stay healthy and fit you must have a proper diet with nutrients and do not forget to hydrate your body.

Brain is one organ that cannot be seen, does not mean it needs to be ignored. You spend most of your time in your head. Make sure it is a happy place to be!

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