How would you define a healthy person? In the recent years, with the advance of media, the idea of pursuing a healthy lifestyle has been commercialized into ‘must try’ fads. These popular trending #goals for fitness, travel, social life etc., have mounted pressure on the digital generation to keep up many standards.
The definition of health has evolved with the modern man and now the aspect of human psyche is also a part of that equation. Take a look at how World Health Organization (WHO) defines health: “A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. The approach here is holistic and inclusive of the body, soul and mind. Going by this definition, the facts reveal that our nation is sinking into a mental health epidemic, since, one in every seven person is has a mental health condition whether it be anxiety, depression or substance abuse!
The hushed nature of this epidemic has caused the numbers to spiral out of control. Here are few ways you, as a responsible citizen can step up for change:
Challenge the stigma: The greatest hindrance we as a country are facing is the lack of awareness and sensitivity. You can grow in sensitivity by educating yourself about mental health and the benefits of therapy. After which, you can spread awareness by opening a dialogue about it in your immediate social circles. These simple actions can have a ripple effect on the community as a whole. Read more about reasons for stigma in our article here.
Be a support system: One the best things you can do for a person who is struggling psychologically is be empathetic. What is empathy? It means validating a person’s emotional experience (positive or negative) without giving solutions or being judgmental. Many people have a misconception that being empathetic to someone with low moods or extreme anxiety will encourage them to wallow or not take responsibility. But this is untrue! Research has proven that receiving empathy and unconditional acceptance are the core conditions for change to take place.
Promoting healthy habits: Every person at some point of their life needs to be cared for psychologically. One the easiest ways you can do this is by finding a good therapist whom you are comfortable with or joining group therapy which addresses specific causes. You don’t necessarily have to be undergoing serious mental health crisis, even if you are seeking to enrich your quality of life, therapy is useful. With professional help, you can grow into the best version of yourself, help you achieve your goals and make a positive difference in your community. Other ways to encourage healthy habits is by having a proactive lifestyle with meditation, exercising, finding social support, eating nutritious meals etc.
These are the first few steps to breaking the labels of pretention, weakness and shame attached to mental health issues. We as a community have a long way to go and we are counting on you to support the cause. You can make the difference!
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