One too many studies and academic literature provide background information and statistics on mental health. What should always be at the forefront of this issue is that, before it even creeps on you, a sibling, or your friend, it’s quite possible to turn the other direction with several ways of coping, battling, and dealing with the difficult things that shoot towards you. Here are some ideas how:
TALK!
Bottling feelings and reoccurring, tormenting thoughts is unhealthy, which manifests mentally and even, physically, and also can hinder your everyday routine, friendships/relationships, and self-esteem/confidence/and worth. It is definitely easier said than done, considering many factors can affect one’s ability to speak out, such as trust issues, stigma/taboo, shyness, and so forth but at other times, it may also be unknown as to who and where to go to talk. First of all, try talking to a friend; more often than not, you’ll find him/her actively listening to you as well as providing insight and advice on your troubles. If that doesn’t sound appealing, try someone you look up to like a family member, a teacher, a guidance councillor, etc. Not only would they likely play the role of a friend in your time of need, but may also guide you on what to do based on experiences they may have encountered in the past.
Go out!
Make use of what’s out there in your community; you build a social network and you can develop or expand on different skills, both of which will definitely benefit you in the long run. Not only that, but it’s healthy to be active, especially with things that you enjoy doing, such as being a team player on a sports team, taking swimming classes, even just doing a workout at the gym. And you can always take a friend along with you. If you want a bit more professional help or someone to talk to, also try out community services and agencies, that quite often have a variety of programs to best suit your needs; internet searches as well as inquiring at your school would be ideal places to begin.
Hobbies!
Often in this day in age, hobbies constitute as playing video games, computer games, and so forth and the interests that used to be widely popular have received less attention. But things such as reading, writing, drawing/art, playing instruments, etc still are practical and interesting hobbies to take up as, they build skill, allow you to make use of time, and exercise your brain.
Make use of school!
It’s not only about the classes and homework; school has a lot more to offer, such as participating on committees (i.e. student council), in clubs, on sports teams, and various events. Alongside this, if there are particular interests which you want to further explore but starting up clubs begin taking initiative and beginning something from the help of peers and staff is also a great way to keep yourself occupied in an enjoyable learning environment.
The bottom line is, there’s never a dead end. Utilizing the several things around you, inquiring about them, taking a friend or two along with you can’t hurt; if anything, you’ll greatly benefit from them. Treat yourself right, the way you deserve; being happy and healthy are two significant places to start.
Author: Poonam Patel
