Mental health is the need of the hour and a universal human right. It is important at every stage of life, and its awareness helps improve understanding of mental health conditions and access to healthcare. A state of mental well-being enables people to cope with the stresses of life, improve productivity, and contribute to the best of their capacity to their profession and the community.
World Mental Health day was first organized on October 10,1992 at the initiative of deputy secretary of World Federation of Mental Health, and has ever since been observed every year. This year’s theme is Mental Health at workplace set by the World Federation of Mental Health for the larger benefit of communities and organisations to improve knowledge, raise awareness, and drive actions that promote and protect the mental health.
William James and Adolf Meyer in their book on Mental Health in 1908 stressed on ‘Embrace your mind- Be Kind’, indicating the mind to be the center of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. India’s rich heritage of Yoga by Maharshi Patanjali and the Bhagvad Gita talk of about Dhyan Yog, and Yog Nidra being able to regulate the metabolic activity in the hypothalamus and amygdala areas in the brain, that helps overcome stress. So, we need food for both our body and soul right from childhood for a healthy work culture and nation.
So, on this mental health day at the work place, we must try a relaxing activity with set goals and priorities, and learn to practice gratitude, focus on positivity, and stay connected with people we admire, love and respect.In the era of social media, unplug yourself with technology breaks to de-stress. Indulge in self-care activities, like massage/baths, reading, hobbies, meditation, and connecting with nature. Spend time with friends, family, and loved ones. Doctors and healthcare workers are among the most stressed and vulnerable to mental health issues. Therefore,to act as a mediator to heal others, one must first heal thyself with profound care and love.
There are seven pillars of self-care; mental-cognitive, emotional, physical, environmental, spiritual, recreational, and social. A well-balanced self-care routine involves each of these, so avoid restricting yourself to just one or two pillars. Thus, to boost our mental health on this World Health Day, we need to learn these tips:
- make social connection — especially face-to-face — a priority
- stay active
- talk to someone
- appeal to your senses
- take up a relaxation practice
- make leisure and contemplation a priority
- eat a brain and soul-healthy diet
- don’t skimp on sleep