Have you experienced any of these situations?- loss of a loved one, job loss/financial distress, school change, divorce, dysfunctional family, miscarriage, birth of a child, feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, loneliness, been jilted or cultural/social expectations to mention but a few? If your answer is yes to any of the following, you have been exposed to conditions that could have lead you to mental/emotional health issues.

So let’s stop the stigma, mental health problems can affect anyone! Mental health is not just the absence of a mental disorder, it is emotional, behavioural and social health and maturity; it is a state of psychological well-being. It is achieving some balance in life.

The World Health Organization captures it all: Mental health is defined as a state of wellbeing in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can add value or make positive contributions to his or her community.

Reach out! Help is available. Life sometimes throws us lemons, let’s make lemonades out of them. No matter how much you worry, the situation will not change. We all deserve to live; our life, health, and happiness are our responsibility. Let’s all learn resilience, teach our children and loved ones same and make the world a better place to live. Let’s offer genuine support to those that need it.

Let’s heal our grief, manage depression, learn and use positive stress coping techniques. Do not be too hard or critical of yourself or others, above all, love yourself and give you the best shot at life. Exercises, massage, deep breathing, healthy eating are some stress busters, avoid abusive relationships and speak-up.

Have a great day all. Check out goodhealth.com.ng!!!

Author: Dr. Nse