Sir: Psychological health or mental health is the absence of mental illness. It is the psychological state of mind where someone is functioning at a satisfactory level of emotional and behavioural adjustment.
Psychological functioning includes multiple domains like coping skills, social skills, individual’s cognitions thinking, memory, sensations, perceptions, emotions, feelings and behaviour.
The person who is healthy in all these domains and doesn’t show any delinquency is said to be mentally healthy. To be mentally healthy is as important or we can say more important than physical health because if one is experiencing mental distress it would definitely affect his or her physical health as well as it would have influence in every walk of life. If person is distressed, he would not be able to perform well in any of the fields of life. People usually focus on their physiological health and they consider that, to be physiological healthy is the most important thing to remain healthy but the fact is if the person is physiological and psychological healthy then he is considered a healthy human being.
Often, people feel distressed due to work, studies, career or family matters. No one is free of tension in modern life. Here are some tips that could help you to feel better in times of stress and help keep you mentally healthy.
Firstly, don’t deal with it alone. Talking to someone about your emotions will reduce the risk of your health eroding further. Also, having the benefit of another person’s perspectives will help you think of a better strategy on how to reduce or even eliminate stress.
Secondly, build your sense of self. Unnecessary stress can consume you, and erode your confidence. An effective way to counter this is to work on your own sense of self. Understand who you are and what you offer. Many people withdraw when they are dealing with stress. Do the opposite, become a better person to others. Feeling good about who you are will help you immensely in dealing with stress.
Take care of your physical health. It’s easy when you’re under stress to develop bad habits. Exercise and a healthy diet are essential ingredients for health.
Thirdly, help others. A therapeutic method to stay psychologically healthy is to be of assistance to other people. If you are going through a tough time at work, odds are that others are going through the same thing. You are in the best position to intervene because you can relate. Where you are a bystander to unnecessary stress, become a protector, and activist. Action is empowering.
Fourth, focus on positive energy. Not dwelling on the negative will help you reframe your situation and improve your emotional health.
Finally, remember to have fun. Enjoy your hobbies. Spend your time in activities you take an interest in. This will alter your thinking and you will feel more satisfied with life.
Keep in mind that people with mental health conditions deserve just as much support and compassion as people with a physical health condition.
You can’t tell just by looking at someone what they are dealing with inside. So be non-judgemental, supportive and compassionate towards others.
MARIA
Islamabad
Published in Daily Times, May 6th 2018.