The topic of mental health has become a buzzword these days. Yet there still seems to be an unnecessary stigma attached. In 2024, society is still confused about the subject, and the importance of practicing mental health and wellness on a regular basis.
Caring for one’s mental well-being is not only important, it’s vital. It’s just as important, if not more important than physical health. They both go hand and hand.
However, some people and even specific generations still view mental health as a disability. In their minds, the topic often implies that you, my friend, have major issues, and those issues? You should probably keep them and the “crazy” to yourself. Which is 100% a simple-minded way of thinking.
So what exactly is Mental Health and Wellness?
Mental Health is defined as “a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being.”
I think the word “well-being” speaks for itself here. Mental wellness is really about maintenance and a state of being. It’s about checking in and taking the time for yourself, paying attention to your stressors so that you can take care of yourself today as well as down the road. We all know it, but how we care for ourselves affects literally every part of our lives, including the ones we love.
We owe it to ourselves to not only reframe and redefine mental wellness but to validate its importance. Accept its importance and apply it as part of our wellness routine. If you’re not already, start prioritizing mental health for yourself, your family, and for your future.
The issue many of us have is our resistance or lack of prioritizing. When you don’t recognize the importance of it, you’re doing yourself a disservice. You delay emotional healing, growth, and becoming a happier person overall. Stubborn resistance to practicing mental wellness habits benefits no one. Do yourself a favor and don’t sell yourself short.
Caring What People Think About Mental Health
Keep in mind that when you do start implementing mental exercises, not everyone will agree with you or see its value. One thing I’ve learned is that following whatever society says, or what those around you think, is just not important in this case. Changing your life starts and ends with you. It starts with being a building block for a happier you and a happier life.
Whenever I’m confused or new to a subject, I always start with a little research on our beloved Google. Check out some of the links below and just read with an open mind.
- Mental Health: How it Affects Your Physical Health
- Caring for Your Mental Health
- 10 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health
- Yes, Mental Illness Can Cause Physical Symptoms. Here’s Why.
I love these articles because there isn’t anything fancy here. It’s basic. It’s simple science with no stigma attached. It’s a way to read up on a part of your life that you may have been denying for years. In short, it’s a way to educate yourself about mental health and the simple moves you can make to live a better life.
No one is expecting you to become an advocate here, but do show yourself more love. Start paying attention to your mental health and set boundaries, something you should have been doing a long time ago.
Remember friends, just as the great Ice Cube once said… Chickity Check yo’ self before you wreck yo’ self.