Mental health is defined as emotional, psychological, and social well-being put together. Every person has ups and downs in life, and sometimes, these can set us back more than expected, especially mentally. According to a 2023 survey by the National Health Mission, around 7 per cent of the Indian population suffers from mental disorders. 

 

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Having good mental health can help you have a positive outlook toward daily tasks, career, relationships, and long-term goals. To have a happier and healthier life, it is imperative to take care of your mental well-being. Targeting mental health is perhaps the most powerful step you can take to improve your overall quality of life. Prioritising your mental health is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, self-care, and the willingness to make yourself a priority.

Self-care has a significant part to play in supporting mental well-being, whether you’re recovering from a bad period or otherwise. In simpler terms, self-care is all about doing things to enhance your physical and mental health. When it comes to mental health, a small push towards self-care can have a huge impact on your overall well-being. By prioritising self-care practices, individuals can reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, prevent burnout, improve self-esteem, increase self-awareness, and build resilience. It is an integral part of a holistic approach to mental health and overall well-being.

Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Different activities work for different people, and it's essential to find what resonates with you personally. Self-care can include activities such as exercise, spending time in nature, practising mindfulness or meditation, pursuing hobbies, seeking social support, setting boundaries, practising good sleep hygiene, and seeking professional help when needed. 

 

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Self-care is crucial for individuals to manage their mental health because it helps in several ways:

• Reduces stress: Engaging in self-care activities can help reduce stress levels. Stress is a significant contributor to mental health issues, and by incorporating self-care practices, individuals can effectively manage and alleviate stress, promoting better mental well-being.
• Boosts emotional well-being: Self-care activities can support emotional well-being by providing individuals with an outlet to express and process their emotions. It allows individuals to acknowledge and address their feelings, fostering emotional resilience and stability.
• Prevents and manages burnout: Self-care is essential for preventing and managing burnout, which often occurs when individuals neglect their own needs and prioritise work or other responsibilities excessively. By incorporating self-care practices, individuals can replenish their energy, establish healthy boundaries, and prevent burnout.
• Improves self-esteem: Engaging in self-care activities can boost self-esteem and self-worth. Taking time for oneself and prioritising personal needs communicates a message of self-value, which positively impacts mental health and overall well-being.
• Enhances resilience: Self-care contributes to building resilience, enabling individuals to cope with and bounce back from challenging situations. By taking care of their physical and mental well-being, individuals develop the strength and resources to face adversity and maintain their mental health.

 

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Ways To Prioritise Your Mental Health

The most effective way to support the well-being of others is by first tending to your own needs. Taking care of your mental health involves acknowledging your requirements and cultivating routines and behaviours to fulfil them. Initially, this might seem difficult or selfish, particularly if you're unaccustomed to meeting your needs. Nevertheless, it serves as a remedy for stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout, making it a worthwhile endeavour requiring commitment and regular practice.

If you find it challenging to prioritise your mental health, consider these five suggestions. 

1. Spend time outdoors: Being outside can be beneficial for alleviating stress, anxiety, and exhaustion. By altering your surroundings when you feel confined, you can enhance your sense of joy, and exposure to natural light can contribute to a more restful sleep. The ability to recover from stress is better in natural settings. According to a 2022 study by Harvard School of Public Health, exposure to greens is more effective in improving mental health.

2. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries in your personal and professional life to prevent burnout and ensure you have time and energy for yourself. Learn to say no when necessary and prioritise activities that align with your mental health needs.

3. Practice Mindfulness: As per a 2023 study issued in the Nature Mental Health, engaging in mindfulness activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and increase self-awareness.

4. Engage in Positive Relationships: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Cultivate healthy and positive relationships that contribute to your well-being. Choose to have people around you who bring positive energy into your life. When physical presence is not possible, make arrangements for phone calls or video chats to stay connected. Be inventive and find creative ways to maintain meaningful connections with the important individuals in your life.

5. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Compassion: Allow yourself breaks from work or responsibilities to recharge and relax. Practice self-compassion by being kind to yourself, acknowledging your accomplishments, and embracing self-forgiveness when faced with setbacks.

 

Mental health experts, such as therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists, have specialised training and knowledge in understanding and addressing various mental health conditions. 

With a mental health expert, you can expect an objective viewpoint on your situation. They can help you gain insights into your thoughts, behaviours, and patterns, offering alternative perspectives and helping you develop healthier coping strategies. Besides, they can provide accurate diagnoses, treatment options, and evidence-based interventions tailored to your specific needs.

 

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Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have stress or depression. Taking regular health checks can help detect mental illness at an early stage when it is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.