In this day and age, the topic of mental health is becoming increasingly more prominent in people’s lives, all aged from young to old. In the past, mental health was overlooked as many thought that it never even existed and that people struggling with mental health issues were just “weaker” and more “sensitive”. But, the truth is: they are completely wrong. Just like how we take care of our physical health by eating nutritious food, exercising daily, and getting the proper amount of sleep – taking the time to understand and care for our mental health is just as important. Before I get into more details, what even is mental health?
According to “Centers for Disease Control and Prevention”, mental health is defined as the “component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Mental health is a state of well-being that enables us to cope with the stresses of life, realize our abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to our community”.
In simpler terms, mental health is, as the name clearly states, the health of the mind.
There is an increasing number of adolescents around the world who are experiencing mental health issues and not receiving the help that they need and deserve. Thanks to the stigmatization that parents, friends, teachers, and social media has created – countless children across the world are being held back in fear of being labelled as “weak” and their problems being dismissed by others.
Therefore, it is our duty to spread as much awareness as possible on this topic in an attempt to reach those who don’t believe in the importance of mental health, in order to change their opposing views. We should spread awareness in channels so that our voice doesn’t reach the teenagers online who need help – but to the adults in society who have the power to help millions of adolescents.
This blog post is my attempt to reach those who need mental help, and give them the courage to speak up about it.
Let’s move on to the 3 most common causes for developing mental health issues. One of the most impactful reasons is trauma, whether it be through emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, or past traumatic events. Another cause includes bullying (either in person or virtually – which is referred to as “cyberbullying”). The third one is cultural or social expectations – which is extremely common. If your culture expects you to act a certain way or do a certain thing, and you don’t want to – you will be criticized for it, leaving you doubting on your identity, self-worth, and etc.
If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t have a trusted adult (or friend) to talk to about the problems you are facing – your mental health will deteriorate even faster.
Here are some practices that you can incorporate into your daily life if you want to try and improve your mental health before it reaches to a state where professional help is required:
- Invest quality time into self-care.
- Make connections with people who build you up rather than tear you down.
- Cultivate hobbies and interests that allow you to enjoy yourself and take your mind off of other pressing issues.
But, on the other hand, if you feel as though you have reached a point where you need professional help – please don’t be afraid to seek it out. I repeat, “Don’t be afraid”.
In Alberta, here is the mental health helpline:
Mental Health Helpline : 1-877-303-2642
If you are a child, you can specifically dial this number and/or visit this website:
Kids Help Phone : 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
We must stand together and fight for an increased awareness in mental health, for the sake of the health of many future generations to come. I encourage you to post mental health awareness related information on your social media accounts so we can reach as many kids and teens across the world and encourage them to seek the help they deserve.
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