What does mental health mean to you?
To research the extent of knowledge students have on mental health, I included the question above in my survey. Below are some of the responses given by students in grades 6-12.
RESPONSES
"I mostly associate mental health with self control and mental strength."
What Does It Really Mean?
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It largely affects how we feel, think, and act and ​helps us determine how to handle stress or make reasonable decisions. It's a lot more than being happy or being sick; it's an essential part of our overall health. People tend to associate health only with physical qualities. However the WHO describes health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being," meaning that mental well-being is crucial to be completely healthy.
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Our mental health can be determined by a range of social, biological, and environmental factors. For instance, violence and pressure are recognized risks to mental health. In addition, unhealthy life style, exclusion, rapid change, stressful work conditions, and discrimination could be other aspects that influence your mental state.
Mental Health and Wellness Tips
Covid-19 Edition
Go outside at least once a day
If you’re concerned about contact, try early in the morning or late at night, and go to less travelled streets. Also, try opening the window, it’s amazing how much fresh air can improve your mood.
Find some time to move around
Follow along a workout video on youtube. There are so many options out there. If all else fails, just turn on some of your favorite music and have a dance session!
Get Ready!
Go take a shower, brush your teeth and get dressed. Organize your work space and tidy your room! How we dress and what we surround ourselves with can really influence our mood.
Notice the good in the world
While we encounter many terrifying and overwhelming information regarding the pandemic on social media, there are sill tons of stories of people sacrificing, donating and supporting each other as well. Let's try to counterbalance the negatives with the positives.
Find something you can control
In moments of uncertainty, try to control a little corner of the world.
Organize your bookshelf, match a puzzle, create an artwork, you name it. These activities could help you anchor when the bigger things become chaotic.
Reach out for help if necessary
If you are having trouble coping, definitely look for some help. Whether it’s a therapist, a psychiatrist, your parents, friends, or teachers, talking to someone could help you cope.