Mental Health is a very important dimension in achieving a holistic well-being along with physical and spiritual domains. The second week of October reminds us on how we should take care of our mental health and to raise awareness on various mental health issues, being celebrated as the National Mental Health Week. On the other side, the increasing rates of depression brought by the pandemic situation has been quite alarming as recently reported by the Department of Health and World Health Organization. Hence, let’s learn more on various means that could tamp down mental health burdens.
In coping stress, health and nutrition must be highly considered. For instance, engaging ourselves in regular exercise is a great way of pumping up our hormones such as endorphins which helps in regulating our mood. Further, the role of nutrition by having a healthy and proper diet can counterbalance the impact of stress. One must take note that the kind of foods we pick could also affect our mental wellness. Eating nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables along with adequate water intake is one of the best ways in beating stress and anxieties. Avoiding alcohol intake, cessation of smoking and getting enough rest and sleep are more healthy ways that can build up mental well-being. The 10 Kumainments of National Nutrition Council summarizes the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos into 10 key messages for better health and nutrition.
Keep in touch with your circles. It is a good thing that you have constants whom you could unload and communicate your feelings with especially in times of crisis. Connecting with other people could provide emotional support. Give your self a break to relax and recreate with your dearest friends or families, not only strengthening your interpersonal relationship’s bond but also giving you relief from the weight of mental issues.
Brush off negative thoughts. In improving the state of your mental well-being, it is important that we should develop a positive outlook in life. An ample time for meditation has benefits in enhancing our focus and emotional stability. In this difficult times, practice and learn to always embrace the value of gratitude so you could drop the apprehensions of the future. Engaging in diversional activities such as watching entertaining movies, reading books or doing your hobbies could be helpful things to avert stressors.
Seek medical attention as necessary. One must recognize the need of seeking help from a medical practitioner. Let’s cut the stigma of being mentally unwell. Never hesitate to see your doctor should you need a treatment to deal with your mental status. This will be your first step towards feeling better and preventing things to become worse.
We can go infinite when we talk about healthy ways to enhance our mental wellness. As we continue to battle this global pandemic, choosing to be healthy could go a long way in establishing our inner strength. Thus, National Nutrition Council supports this celebration as an involvement in multisectoral approach to promote equilibrium of total well-being. (NOIIAurel/NOIIIFlores/NPC)
