- ABC of Mental Health
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- ABC of Mental Health
Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health — one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is Mental Health May on account of this being Mental Health Awareness Month. Some of you may wonder, why so much talk about mental health? Mental health isn't just about the absence of disorders; it's about coping with life's stresses, realising our full potential, and living our best life. It encompasses our wellbeing, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and actions and thus the growing recognition of its importance. We bring it to your inbox this Thursday to make your Thursday a little therapeutic!
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One relevant recommendation:
This weeks recommendation is a small challenge — committing to our mental health. In this, all you have to do is one thing daily for your mental health. You don’t have to spend more than 10 minutes and it can be something you do everyday. The important thing is, it should make you relaxed or happy. It could be having a glass of warm water, taking a 5 minute walk, or spending time in the sun. Simpler is better.
You can tag us here if you’d like to share your journey with us on social media.
Two quotes on Mental-Health and Well-being:
Noam Shpancer, a psychologist, spoke about journey of mental health:
"Mental health...is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going."
Russ Harris, an author, spoke about grounding and importance of breathing techniques:
"Slow breathing is like an anchor in the midst of an emotional storm: the anchor won't make the storm go away, but it will hold you steady until it passes."
Three TherapyShorts from TST (on understanding mental health)
Mental health is not a buzzword or a recent fad: Mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being that extends beyond trendy buzzwords or temporary fads. It encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, impacting how individuals think, feel, and behave. Example: Rather than treating mental health as a passing trend, it's crucial to recognize its long-standing importance. For instance, historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Vincent van Gogh struggled with mental health issues, highlighting that these challenges have existed for centuries.
It’s okay to not be okay: Emotions, both positive and negative, are a natural and essential part of the human experience. It's essential to validate and acknowledge all emotions, including sadness, anger, anxiety, and grief, without judgment or stigma. If someone is experiencing grief after the loss of a loved one, it's vital to validate their feelings of sadness and provide support rather than dismissing or minimising their emotions. Similarly, acknowledging and accepting feelings of anxiety or frustration during challenging times can promote emotional well-being. Validate ALL emotions not just positive ones.
Mental Health for all means asking for help: Mental health is universal, affecting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Normalising conversations around mental health and encouraging individuals to seek help when needed are essential steps towards reducing stigma and promoting access to care. Example: A celebrity openly discussing their experiences with depression or anxiety can help normalize conversations about mental health on a global scale. Additionally, initiatives like workplace mental health programs or community support groups provide accessible resources for individuals to seek help and support. If you’re someone who understands the importance of therapy – normalise asking for help. Gift therapy to a friend or parent. Make therapy cool :)
Love and light,
The Social Therapist
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