Everywhere you turn, people are discussing mental health. On the television. On social media. In schools. In the workplace. Why is it so popular? Why now? Many years ago, people did not talk about feelings. They held feelings inside. Society told people to “be strong” and “move on.” Sadly, many people suffered in silence. Now, people are talking about it. People realize mental health is important. As important as physical health. So, let’s talk about why it matters.
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Why Is Mental Health Getting So Much Attention Now?
First, modern existence can often be stressful. People are working longer hours. People are online longer. They are sleeping less. People compare themselves to their peers on social media and that creates this type of pressure.
Second, the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. Some people lost family and friends. Others lost jobs. Children missed school. Many others were feeling isolated, fearful, vulnerable, and confused after the world outside their front door changed forever. The COVID-19 pandemic opened everyone’s eyes to the impact mental health has in our lives each day.
Third, young people began speaking out. They have begun to talk about their feelings on apps and social media platforms. They are getting help and support from mental health professionals without the shame that might have followed in the past. Young adults speaking their truth is a huge change and gives others the courage to share as well.
Breaking the Stigma
For many years, there has existed a huge stigma surrounding mental health. Sadness and anxiety indicated weakness, a belief that incited a large amount of fear and silence.
That stigma is gradually breaking down. People are starting to talk about their low days of depression, anxiety, and stress. They are sharing their stories and being frank about their mental health struggles.
Public figures, athletes, influencers, and even storylines in popular TV shows are helping to defeat this stigma and reinforce the idea that everyone has low days and that it is okay. When we can talk about what is happening in our lives we can build hope. When we can openly discuss the stigma of mental health for one another, and for ourselves, that very counsel can change how we might choose to ask for help and/or support at the moment we need it most.
Mental Health Affects Everyone
Everyone is impacted by mental health challenges. Wealthy or impoverished. Young or old. Male or female. It affects every person.
Even a person who smiles every day has pain hidden inside. That is why we cannot judge others. We must show compassion. Mental health is not picky. It affects students, parents, teachers, and workers. Sometimes it even affects the helpers. That is why it is important to talk about it. It reinforces helping ourselves and those around us.
The Mind-Body Connection
The body and mind are connected. When one suffers, the other suffers. Stress can result in headaches or stomach pain. Anxiety can lead to lethargy or insomnia. Depression can make you feel heavy and weak. So, when we achieve a better mental state, the body often benefits as well. When our mind is calm, our bodies can remain strong. This illustrates how health is a holistic picture. Everything is connected.
The Influence of Social Media
Online platforms have both positive and negative effects on mental health. Youth are connected. They have support groups and uplifting messages. They can share and tell stories, creating a sense of togetherness.
Yet, it has brought pressure as well. Many in society are now comparing themselves with flawless representations online. With the understanding that not all images are real, people feel envious, sad, or inadvertently, a sense of self-doubt. Use social media with caution. It can be valuable but must be managed prudently.
Mental Health in Schools
Children and teens are also feeling pressure. School demands, exams, bullying, or family stressors can impact their mental health. That is why schools are now turning their attention to mental health. They are providing safe places for students. They are offering student counseling sessions. Furthermore, they are now training teachers to identify ways to support their students. This is all a very positive step in the right direction. When students feel heard and safe, they learn better. They can grow into more confident and stronger students and adults.
Tips for Helping Mental Health
Supporting mental health is not hard. It starts with small things.
Talk about how you feel. Do not keep it inside. Find someone you trust. The act of talking makes you feel better. Eat healthy food. Drink enough water. Sleep well. Move your body every day. These things help to support a healthy mind.
Also, make sure you take breaks. If you feel tired, say no. Have some deep breaths. Listen to music. Pray or meditate. Any of these things will help relieve your stress. Finally, try to get help when you need it. There is nothing wrong with going to see a therapist or counselor. Talking with a professional is brave and smart.
Mental Health at Work
Adults struggle and are accountable for their mental health, too. It’s just like anything else in life. Adults feel pressure from work. Many adults work a number of hours each week. Some adults work in a very toxic work environment.
But times are changing, and companies have learned the truth. A happy employee is a better employee. It is becoming more common for companies to offer their employees options like: therapy, days off for mental health, or flexible requirements. With this new awareness and feeling, people are working to develop balance in their lives. When people feel seen and valued, they work better.
Why Talking About It Helps
Words have value and power. When we express the feelings and experiences we go through, it feels a little less heavy on us. For others, it creates more of a sense of safety to share. When we keep our pain secret, our pain keeps getting larger. With the ability to speak about what we are feeling, we are also reminded that we are not alone. And just as importantly, when we share, we make space for other people to share too.
This web of honesty grows to become a bigger cycle of healing. Little by little, it generates more kindness and compassion in the world.
Be Kind to Each Other
You never know what someone is going through. This is why kindness is so important.
A smile or a gentle word. A gentle act. Or, a simple act can completely change someone’s day.
Always try to listen with no judgment. Offer someone help if you sense they are struggling. Just being there for someone can save a life.
Mental Health is a Journey
Taking care of our minds isn’t just a one-off thing. It is a daily practice. Some days are harder than others. Some days will not be easy. And that’s okay. Every step you take matters. Every act of self-care matters. Over time, all those little things add up.
