World Mental Health Day, which was on Sunday, October 10, is a day where communities across the world are called to raise awareness for mental health issues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it’s also an “opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work” and to find ways to make mental health care a “reality for people worldwide.”
Though the day has passed, it doesn’t mean you should forget what it’s all about. Here are five things you should remember after World Mental Health Day.
Work on it, every day
If you don’t put your own foot forward, you’ll be stuck in the same place forever. So that means setting goals, eating right, and finding ways to deal with the stressors and triggers in your life. World Mental Health Day can feel like a comfort because the whole world is suddenly paying attention, but you’ve got to remember to take care of yourself even when it’s just a regular day. Hey — just getting out of bed is already a big win!
It’s okay to stumble
Of course, progress doesn’t fall at a linear pace. There will be days where you don’t keep up with your goals, and that’s okay. It’s perfectly fine to stumble once in a while as long as you keep the mindset to soldier on! Take some time to reset and analyze your feelings before you decide how to move forward. It’s an uphill battle, but you’ll learn a lot about yourself along the way.
Do something different
Break your routine and do something different! A change of pace or scenery can really help you clear your mind and may actually push you to focus on what you need to work on. It can be as spontaneous as a beach trip or as ordinary as a walk in the park — whatever it is, your mental health will surely benefit.
Keep away from temptations
Alcohol, nicotine, drugs, or other addictions used for comfort can only pull you downward. While they may provide temporary comfort, they are never solutions. Make the conscious decision to avoid what you know you use as quick fixes and note down things that can really help you, in the long run. If you’re around people who constantly offer you these things, it’s time to find new company.
Support systems are all around you
If there’s anything that you should remember, it’s that you have support systems all around you. Your family, friends, and other loved ones absolutely care about you and your well-being and you should try your best to accept that. Reach out when you’re feeling low or think about getting professional help when needed. It’ll make a world of a difference.
If you or a loved one are experiencing mental health difficulties, you can reach out to the National Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 0917-899-8727/090-863-92672 or visit Mental Health PH for more resources.
Art Daniella Sison
