Stressed out? Some cool tips to help you deal with stress and tension
Dealing with stressors has almost become a part and parcel of our lives, regardless of age, gender or occupation. The psychological impact of such stressors within our daily lives often gets neglected, as many of us get accustomed to the same, or might not realize the extent of the same. However, it is essential to ensure widespread awareness and sensitivity about mental health concerns in order to overcome the stigma that has been associated with mental illnesses since time immemorial. At the same time, encouraging help seeking behaviour is of paramount importance. The following are some of the points which could be considered about seeking help in the field of mental health:
1 Encourage de-stigmatization of mental health. One of the primary obstacles which typically comes in the way of identification and management of mental illnesses is the stigma attached. Therefore, an open mindedness is essential to fight the roots of such myths, along with increasing a widespread awareness and education about mental health. 2 Don’t hesitate to talk
about it. Talking about one’s distress is undoubtedly a prerequisite to seeking help. It is important to remember not to bottle up one’s feelings inside of us. Instead, we need to be willing to talk it out, vent out our emotions, while at the same time sharing our distress with our near and dear ones. Not only is this process cathartic, but also serves as an agent of encouraging willingness to seeking help. 3
Seek support. It is only by talking about your own concerns that it is possible to reach out for the support of others. In
fact, sharing one’s problems in itself is the first step as it helps the individual realize that he or she is not alone. Therefore, reach out to your family, friends, or peers, and talk to them. 4 Creating sensitivity.
Another major obstacle that often blocks help seeking behaviour comprises of worries about being misjudged, not being listened to or fearing betrayal. betrayed, thereby experiencing mistrust and shame.
This can be further compounded by the lack of understanding and awareness amongst members of the community. Therefore, it is necessary for all of us to create a sensitized approach within the society in order to ensure greater receptivity as well as understanding of mental health related concerns. 5
Be informed. It is primarily due to lack of awareness and information that families and individuals frequently turn a blind eye to potential conditions of mental health related prob- lems and do not seek the required help. They may not know who to go to for help, or may be misinformed about the nature of their problem.
Often, they may not even be aware that they have a problem and can carry the agonizing pain of feeling responsible for their own suffering, experiencing a lot of guilt and self-blame. Therefore, we must educate ourselves about these concerns in order to be equipped with the knowledge to identify and guide others. 6 Be willing to reach out to a professional. Remember, struggling to deal with your own stresses alone is not a sign of strength. Therefore, be willing and open to reach out to the help of a professional mental health expert, who can help you identify the concerns and offer more adaptive coping strategies of overcoming the situation while also planning for a better future.