Thoughts can provoke us in a way that may lead to poor decisions. However, it is what we make of these thoughts that define our character. With mental health week just passing, It’s Our Time want to talk about what mental health week means to us. To us, Mental health week is not just about expressing what we feel as individuals, but it’s about learning how to cope with dangerous thoughts. By getting through such a tough and challenging week, you guys have shown that you are capable of surviving the tough battle many fail to win.
The battle with mental health is not an easy one and it takes time. Posing a challenge to both our physical and mental health, the battle with mental wellbeing is indefinite and arduous. Although we must learn to establish personal boundaries, it is also important to not lock people out. We have to learn to recognize the early signs of a declining mental health. Mental health is comparable to a virus. To kill a virus, it is essential to find it at its benign stages. This not only makes it easier to kill but makes it easier to overcome. Although you may feel a need to maintain strong barriers to feel safe, your safety requires human contact positive development. Open up and let others reciprocate their feelings. We are human, and we need to interact with others. Here is how we can detect early signs of decaying mental health. Here are a few examples:
· Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
· Yelling or fighting with family and friends
· Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
· Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head
· Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
· Thinking of harming yourself or others
There are many ways you can overcome mental illnesses, and to do so, you must make a change* in your life. Improving your mental health can be achieved in several ways: getting more sleep, cleaning your diet, or exercising more. Mental health, if left untouched, can come back and it may come back even more deadly. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle when it comes to battling mental health. By doing so, you are not only improving your mental health but the wellbeing of those around you.
You are not alone, there are many others fighting similar battles. However, it is your choice to continue or give up. You survived one week, why not 51 more?
What about your friends? Do not hesitate to speak out and ask if they are doing okay. It’s our time to make a change, let’s do it together.
Helpful links and numbers
Links to check out:
*It’s Our Time article on change: https://iitsourtime.wixsite.com/itsourtime/post/making-change
CDC article on mental health: https://www.cdc.gov/hrqol/wellbeing.htm
Numbers to call:
beyond blue: 1300 22 4636
kids help line: 1800 55 1800
lifeline: 13 11 14
mensline: 1300 789 978
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