Mental health in India remains a taboo subject. Most of us often refrain from talking about mental health and its care. Mental problems can easily spiral out of control and destroy completely perfect lives. But, mental problems are often difficult to treat, and that is why it is important to try and prevent mental problems altogether.
Almost all mental health doctors agree that mental health problems can be prevented by addressing major issues like work, housing, and education, among others. There are a number of things that may seem to be out of control, but in reality, there are various ways in which an individual can maintain good mental health, and keep illnesses at bay.
Here are a few things that you can do to prevent mental problems from occurring:
1. Keep Yourself in Good Physical Health
There are a number of researches that point towards the negative impact that poor physical health has on mental health. Even mental health doctors agree on it. There is a lot of evidence to show that exercise helps keeps a lot of mental problems at bay, and that healthy eating is not only goodyou’re your body, but also for the mind. Here is how you can keep fit:
- Eat nutritious meals
- Avoid cigarettes
- Drink plenty of water
- Exercise
- Get enough sleep
2.Challenge Your Brain
If your daily job doesn’t challenge you mentally or if you are tired of keeping your mind active by doing crosswords, Sudoku, puzzles, etc., try learning a new language or train in a new skill or pick-up a challenging hobby. Remember to keep your mind engaged.
3.Learn to Control Your Anger
Anger can be really harmful for your health and relationships. So,learn effective anger management techniques that will help negate any consequences of this emotion. You can try meditating, as relaxation exercises and prayer can help improve one’s outlook on life. In fact, research has shown that meditation can help you feel calm.
4.Lower Your Stress
Stress is bad for health.It not contributes to heart diseases and hypertension, increasing the risk of strokes; it also doesn’t do much good for your mental health. So, try to make the requisite changes in your life that will lead to lower levels of stress. You can practice skills that will help you cope with stress. You can try Tai Chi, or take a nature walk, or play with your pet to reduce stress.
5.Set Goals that are Realistic
Plan out what you want to achieve academically, professionally, and personally, and write down the steps that will help you realize your goals. Don’t be afraid to aim high, but be realistic. As you progress towards your goal, you will feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment that will make you feel good about yourself.
6.Take Time Out for Yourself
Take some time out for yourself and do stuff that you enjoy. Travel around, hang out with your friends, and do things that make you happy.
7.Work on Your Self Esteem
Poor self-esteem is known to have a negative impact on mental health and can lead to mental illnesses. Low self-esteem is associated with problems like eating disorders, social withdrawal, and so on. Treat yourself with kindness and respect and try to avoid self-criticism. Find time for your hobbies and favorite projects.
8.Stay Positive
Try to think positive and don’t take things too seriously. Try to have a positive outlook for things; finding the silver lining could help you ward of mental illnesses. So, focus on the bigger picture and don’t let things get you down.
9.Sleep Well
Sleep deprivation is one of the most common risk factors associated with mental health disorders. Lack of sleep can negatively impact both your physical and mental health. So, try to get enough sleep, so that you feel rested and refreshed for the day ahead.
10.Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
If you drink alcohol, try to keep it to a minimum and avoid any other kind of substance abuse. People often use alcohol and other drugs to “self-medicate”, but the truth is that alcohol and drugs only aggravate mental health disorders.
11.Seek Help
Remember that there is no shame in getting help if you feel overwhelmed and find yourself losing grip. You can consult mental health doctors and get help from a mental hospital. Seeking treatment for mental problems is in your interest only. It also shows that you are willing to fight against your mental problems. Remember, with appropriate mental illness treatments, anyone can recover from mental illness and lead a full and rewarding life.
Lastly, remember to communicate, no matter who is there in your life, whether it is a huge family or friend, try to communicate often. The more you talk about your emotions, the better it will be for you. Keep your relationships intact and strong, and use them to your advantage.
