*Trigger Warning: Mentions of Stress, Depression, Anxiety*
World Mental Health Day happens every 10th of October. The World Health Organization (WHO) started this campaign in 2013 to raise awareness about mental health and mobilize efforts supporting mental health campaigns. World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) made this year’s theme “Make mental health for all a global priority.”
We want to ask people who often cope with stress, anxiety, depression, etc., how do they battle it? We know that not everyone manages. Sometimes what one person says is not applicable to another. Like in our team, one would play games and drink coffee to relieve stress and anxiety, and another would engage in physical activities such as jogging and cycling. However, specialists have tips and suggestions that might help us cope better.
According to the WHO, one in eight people has a mental disorder. The number rose to over 25% during the first year of the pandemic, while mental health services stopped and were on hold. Having a mental disorder was and is taboo in some places, but groups, organizations, and people are fighting over the stigma and making everyone aware of mental illnesses.
What can work
- Take breaks – Taking breaks from reading, watching the news, and scrolling through social media is healthy as some topics seen can even trigger a traumatic event. It can also give time for you to focus on yourself and reflect.
- Unwind – This can be traveling, eating out, playing, and doing a staycation, or a simple getaway from the fast-paced life that can refresh your mind and body.
- Engage in physical activity – Exercising can help reduce stress and release endorphins that make us feel better.
- Talk to someone – Communicating with people you trust and sharing your thoughts and feelings is one way to help and gain insight from others.
- Avoid intoxication and alcohol – As much as it sounds fun to drink, it may cause more problems and add stress. Instead of alcohol, hydrate yourself with water.
- Recognize when you need help – If it gets worse, it would be best to consult with a psychologist or a counselor. Don’t hesitate to talk and find support.
Don’t be afraid to seek help
For anyone needing help, our Department of Health has a Mental Health program. LGUvsCOVIDph listed down centers and hospitals offering free mental health services for those scared to seek assistance from professionals.
