Self care - Mental Health Awareness Month

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I'm a bit late out of the gates on this one, since Mental Health Awareness Month began on 1 May. However, it would be remiss of me not to recognise the importance of this month, particularly now when the consciousness and positive energy of the human race has been stripped by the ravages of a global pandemic resulting in millions of deaths, and political and social unrest in war-torn Palestine.

Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the US since 1949 and is usually observed with media, awareness workshops and education forums and local events and fairs promoting wellness and self care.

Not so long ago, publicly talking about mental health was taboo and mental disorders were almost automatically associated with a straight jacket and a padded cell. Today, with the help of millenials and Gen Z who are not afraid of talking straight and looking to right the wrongs of the world done by the generations before them, mental health has become top of mind.

As such, the month of May is instrumental in bringing awareness and educating the public about mentail health and disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mania, dementia and alzheimers. Stats show that 18.1% of Americans are living with these conditions. It can no longer be a topic that is swept under the rug.

Mental Health America has confirmed that the pandemic has had a profound and lasting effect on the mental wellbeing of people of all ages. They have advocated that now more than ever, it is critical to reduce the stigma around mental health struggles because the stigma oftentimes

prevents individuals who are suffering from seeking help. It can be a lonely and frightening place and it is hoped that with education, empathy and awareness, the daily struggle of people with mentail disorders can be minimised.

The MHA's theme 'Tools to Thrive', includes the provision of a toolkit that anyone can use to improve their mental health and increase their resiliency regardless of their personal situation. Coping with stress and the rigours of life can become overwhelming and self care is critical in order to ride the wave of challenges that are as sure as night and day. Some tools suggested are:

  1. Getting out of thinking traps
  2. Processing big changes
  3. Taking time for yourself
  4. Adapting after trauma and stress
  5. Dealing with anger and frustration
  6. Radical acceptance

Mental health is a very personal subject for me and without judgement, I encourage our WA community to become more aware of those around you who may be suffering silently - a co-worker, a family member, a friend. Just as we support each other in the development of our businesses and goals, so too, should we be our brother's (sister's) keeper and provide support just by being there. Though you may not be in a position to identify with what the person may be going through, listening and showing care can make the world of difference.

#mentalhealthmonth

#breakthestigma

#youarenotalone

Let's do our part!


Cheers.

Maria

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Recent Comments

30

Very well written. You show a lot of empathy in your writing, obviously a subject that you are passionate about. We should all be aware of others around us who may be hurting but can not show it. In my day you just had too “man” up. Boys don’t cry etc etc. Staying connected is probably the most important thing you can do. This is a well written article about a very sensitive topic and you have done it wonderfully.

Thanks a lot Zoopie. Appreciate you reading the post and for the compliments too. Times have changed so much where this subject is concerned and line you said, back in the day you were required to suck it up or "man up". Thankfully that attitude has slowly changed. #hope

Maria

Wonderful post. I spent 30yrs in healthcare and saw so many people struggle with mental health issues. In the UK it is difficult to find enough trained counsellors to give the help that’s needed and even more so with the pandemic affecting our social health care system.

Beautifully written post xx

Thank you so much Janet. It's a very real issue all over the world. Sadly the stresses of modern day living have created so many additional issues and lack of coping skills too. Appreciate you taking the time to read this very personal and important subject. #hope

Maria

Hello Maria
Nice work!!

Walter

Thank you Walter. Much appreciated. #hope

Maria

Thanks for making everyone more aware of Mental health and this month which especially brings it to the forefront, Maria!

Jeff

You're welcome Jeff. Thanks for reading and commenting. #hope

Maria

Thanks, Maria, and you are very welcome!

Jeff

I found this to be an excellent post and very timely as well. As a physician, I am well aware of the isolation people have been experiencing during the pandemic and the associated lockdowns. It is important we keep our neighbors in mind who may be really suffering from isolation, financial concerns, health issues, among others.

I am also mindful that during the pandemic, it has been difficult to many people to get proper health care - more people are not getting their routine cancer screens or primary health care.

Thanks for the reminder - we are our brothers' keeper!

Dave.

Thank you Dave. You are so correct. There are millions of people who have lost their jobs, have mortgages or rent to pay, families to feed. The lock downs themselves are challenging enough to deal with. I've heard some people now have anxiety episodes due to having to wear a mask. As simple as that our lives have been impacted and our mental health affected. Look out for each other. #hope

Maria

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