3 Strategies To Maintain Your Mental Health And Why You Should Care
Monika Malan
I make it easy for new female leaders to lead with confidence and authority | Leadership Coach | Product Owner
In the high-stakes corporate environment, mental health often takes a backseat to deadlines, deals, and data analysis.?
However, for you as a female leader embarking on your leadership journey, it’s essential to understand and prioritise mental health.
The Essence of Mental Health
What Is Mental Health?
Mental health encompasses your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how you think, feel, and act, affecting everything from your decision-making processes to how you cope with stress. A robust mental health state enables you to realise your potential, work productively, and contribute meaningfully to your community.
Why Is Mental Health Important?
Mental well-being is the foundation upon which you build your life. Just as physical health allows you to navigate your daily activities, mental health empowers you to handle challenges, build relationships, and pursue your goals. For young leaders, particularly women, mental health is a cornerstone of effective leadership, resilience, and innovation.
Common Mental Health Disorders
Understanding common mental health disorders is the first step toward recognition and empathy—both for yourself and others.
Depression
Depression is characterised by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a range of physical and emotional problems, significantly impairing your ability to function at work and home.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders go beyond temporary worry or fear. They include conditions such as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, impacting your ability to lead a normal life.
Stress-Related Disorders
In the fast-paced corporate sector, stress-related disorders are prevalent. These conditions stem from acute stress and manifest as physical or psychological distress.
The Impact of Mental Health on Quality of Life
Mental health significantly influences your quality of life. It affects your capacity to:
For female leaders, mental well-being is particularly crucial, as it supports the development of leadership qualities such as empathy, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire and motivate others.
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Work-Life Integration
I believe achieving a work-life balance is not possible; you will always be spending more time or effort on one rather than the other. Instead, focus on work-life integration - but keep in mind that even this can be a challenge.
Mental health plays a pivotal role in managing this integration effectively, enabling you to set boundaries, prioritize tasks, and find time for self-care amidst your responsibilities.
Leadership and Mental Health
Leaders with strong mental health are more likely to foster positive workplace environments. You can navigate stress, make informed decisions, and support your teams through challenges, and ultimately drive success and innovation.
3 Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health
1. Self-Care Practices
Self-care practices are essential for maintaining mental health. This includes:
Each of these practices contributes to a stronger mental state, equipping you to face the demands of your role as a leader.
2. Seek Professional Help
Recognising when to seek help is a sign of strength. Mental health professionals can provide support through therapy, counselling, and sometimes medication. These resources are invaluable for those navigating mental health challenges.
3. Building a Supportive Network
A supportive professional and personal network provides a foundation for open discussions about mental health. Mentorship, peer support, and professional networks can offer guidance, understanding, and encouragement.
Conclusion
For female leaders in the corporate sector, understanding mental health is not just a personal asset; it's a professional necessity.?
By demystifying common disorders, recognizing the signs of mental distress, and implementing strategies to maintain mental well-being, you can enhance your leadership journey and contribute to a culture of mental health awareness and support in your workplace.
This introductory guide is just the beginning. Continue to educate yourself, seek support when needed, and lead by example in prioritizing mental health. Remember, your mental well-being is crucial to your success as a leader.