I must only write about mental health as May 13-19 marks mental health week. As an advocate for mental health. I am all game for why everyone needs to be in their healed space.
“In Nigeria, the suicide rate was 6.9 per 100,000 populations in 2019, across both sexes; however, male suicide rates were higher at 10.1 per 100,000 populations according to Nigeria Health Watch”
This stat shows that we need to make people more aware of how important it is for them to be mentally stable.
“Mental health is the overall wellness according to the Mayo Clinic of how you think, regulate your feelings and behave”. Issues can always arise to put our mental health to the test. Loss of loved ones, a traumatic experience, etc. which results in having to experience a significant disturbance in this mental functioning.
A bad experience can cause even the best of us to relapse. A mental disorder may be present when changes in thinking, feeling or behaving cause distress or disrupt a person’s ability to function. A mental health disorder may affect how well you can function in your relationships, work and other social activities.
If these are not reasons enough to have a mental health checkup intermittently, then I wonder what else would be reason enough to spur us into our healthy state. With serious economic downsize and the standard of living being so poor for an average Nigerian. It is a hard time and also a sensitive period for people to lose their mental stability.
The benefits of regular mental health checks are numerous and can greatly contribute to overall well-being. Some of these benefits include:
1.Early Detection: Early detection saves lives. Regular mental health checks can help identify potential issues or disorders early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Only when we make our cognitive health a priority.
2.Preventive Care: The reasons why preventive care will always be a priority for me. So, for anything that affects your mental health, feel free to use the delete button, block button, and do not disturb (DND) button to keep your space sane. By monitoring your mental health regularly, you can take proactive steps to prevent the development or worsening of mental health issues.
3. Self-Love/Self-Awareness: A quote by Jim Rohn — “I will take care of me for you if you will take care of you for me”. We can only give what we have. Engaging in mental health checks encourages self-reflection; self-love and self-awareness of your emotional and psychological state, helping you better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
4.Enhanced Coping Strategies: Regular mental health checks can equip you with effective coping strategies and resilience skills to better manage stress, challenges, and setbacks in life.
5.Break Stigma: Normalizing mental health check-ups helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourages open discussions about emotional well-being, leading to greater acceptance and support within communities.
As for easier ways to conduct a mental health check, here are some guides:
1.Self-Assessment: Utilize online self-assessment tools or questionnaires designed to evaluate mental health symptoms and provide feedback on your emotional well-being. An example is the Chester County Hospital self-assessment questionnaire.
2.Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness practices such as taking nature walks, visiting an art gallery, meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga or journaling to cultivate self-awareness and monitor your thoughts and emotions.
3.Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, for a comprehensive mental health assessment. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your individual needs and concerns.
4.Talk to family and friends: When was the last time you spoke to a loved one? Maintain open communication with trusted friends, family members, or support networks about your mental health. Sharing your experiences and concerns with others can offer valuable insights and perspectives.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can prioritize your mental health and well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.