Reducing The Stigma Around Mental Health

Mental health awareness refers to actions that aim to decrease the social stigma around mental illness by sharing personal experiences; hence it is a necessary step in designing a proactive model of mental health and wellbeing.

Misconceptions about mental health often result in people keeping silent about their conditions, leading to untreated illnesses. Mental health awareness helps improve understanding of psychological complexities and access to healthcare providers, psychiatrists, or therapists in time for mental health and behavioural treatment.

There are four primary benefits of mental health awareness:

• It helps individuals understand their symptoms and access the required treatment in time.
• It encourages individuals to open -up about their mental health, which can be therapeutic and supportive for those with mental health conditions.
• It educates caregivers, employers, parents, family members, and loved ones to understand the impact of mental health on daily life, making it easier to prioritize mental health care.
• It also promotes mental fitness, which is a positive approach toward maintaining better emotional health, wellbeing, and cognitive agility.

Reducing the stigma associated with mental health is the key to improving mental fitness in the community.

This awareness movement expands understanding of mental health issues and wellness to promote mental fitness, which allows individuals to live life with more purpose, clarity, and passion.

Thus, by shunning misconceptions about mental health, this awareness movement can help individuals to receive appropriate care, support, and resources to manage their mental health and achieve their goals.

Following are some regular habits and tips one can follow to improve their mental health and wellbeing:

Following a healthy and nutritious diet: The impact of what one eats and drinks can have a subtle but consequential effect on an individual's mental health. A healthy and nutritious diet is hence important to promote mental wellbeing. For example, including non-caffeinated tea and food sources full of vitamin B, magnesium, vitamin D3, and omega-3 in the diet can aid in managing depression.

Engaging in physical activities regularly: Physical activity can boost mental and behavioural health and reduce symptoms of many mental health conditions. Engaging regularly in physical activities releases chemicals that bolster the wellbeing of human neurons.

Engage in social interaction: Studies suggest that social interaction is crucial for maintaining good mental health, even for introverted individuals or those who experience anxiety in social gatherings. Engaging in occasional conversations or forming relationships, regardless of the frequency, can significantly improve one's mental wellbeing.

Practicing mindfulness and meditation: Mindfulness and meditation can provide several advantages, like waning negative rumination and stress while enhancing personal and mental satisfaction. To practice mindfulness and meditation, one can consider approaches such as mindfulness-based therapy, tea meditation, or spending time in nature.

Developing a habit of being grateful: Gratitude helps individuals appreciate their privileges, people in their lives, and material possessions, enabling them to break free from constraints that limit their happiness. By doing so, individuals can improve their physical and mental wellbeing, foster fulfilling relationships, and improve sleep quality, along with many other benefits.

Consulting a therapist: Hundreds of studies have indicated that seeking therapy, whether in-person or online, can enhance an individual's quality of life and mitigate symptoms of mental health issues. A therapist serves as a coach, constantly encouraging and challenging individuals to prioritize their mental wellbeing.

To put it simply - optimal mental health can help one manage life's challenges, recognize their strengths, and succeed in personal and professional life while contributing positively to their community.?

Every individual is entitled to live a life filled with happiness and purpose. That’s a wonderful outcome and something that is worth striving for.?

Author: Dr Dawn Soo , Medical Director, Cigna Healthcare - Asia, Middle East & Africa.

With over 60 years of global experience and over 20 years of experience in the Middle East, Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa 's health insurance plans are carefully designed to deliver quality and affordable healthcare solutions as per the needs of customers.

Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa is part of Cigna Healthcare , a global health services company with roots in the US, serving over 180 million customers globally.

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