Today, October 10th, is World Mental Health Day. Today is also an opportunity for all to spread and raise awareness about mental health issues.
This year’s theme is suicide and suicide prevention. According to StatsCan there’s an average of 10 people who die from suicide in Canada. Suicide is also included in the top 10 leading cause of death in the country and it is said that 90% of these victims were living with mental health illness.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, act, and feel, which makes it so important.
In this generation, mental health has become a serious issue for all. As it affects anyone, regardless of age or occupation. Depression, stress, and anxiety are just some factors that affects an individual’s mental health.
Who Can Help?
As serious as it is, people with mental health issues can get help from many. First, from their own family. Though it may sound simple, this first option may not actually apply to everyone especially if they’re having problems at home. But if you are lucky enough to have a healthy relationship with your family then they can definitely be a great support system.
For students who suffer depression and peer pressure, they can go to their school’s guidance counselor to pick up some advice and have a good talk, like an outlet that will help them release the stress they’ve been feeling. And for a more serious case, it is advised that people see a therapist, psychologist, or anyone with expertise on dealing with mental health issues.
What Can You Do For Yourself?
Yes, you can also be helpful to yourself. In one episode of Filipino TV’s Live Breathe Yoga, Nicole Hudson, Founder of Kind Is Strong, a program that hosts workshops, webinars to teach and empower women and young girls, shared her personal experience as she dealt with difficulties in her life and how she was able to work things through.
“I always choose to be kind over everything else. For me, being kind to others is actually being kind to myself.”
Nicole pointed out how your treatment to others and perspective in life helps big time on how you feel about yourself. So take a breath and take control.