The Importance of Mental Health Awareness During COVID-19

Mental Health Awareness

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness in May, I think it is super important to address why we should not only recognise mental health in May but every day of the year, 365 days. Over the years, I have definitely seen improvements in the recognition of Mental Health and how we behave or react when the term mental health is said. As described in this video, mental health can come in different stages/ levels depending on internal and external factors and how much they contribute.

What content will you see this month for Mental Health Awareness?

This month, we will write up articles and posts that will revolve around mental health awareness and offer resources and support that can help you in maintaining your mental well-being. We will look at mental health first aider, share personal stories, mental health networks at work and so much more.

I personally believe the biggest step is to first recognise and acknowledge mental health. Please go seek medical advice from your GP/doctor and get the best support you need. There are different processes in order to help each individual, such as myself, having gone through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) online.

Personally, going online, I felt more confident in doing the CBT session, as it means I did not have to talk to someone face to face. I was also offered telephone therapy sessions once a week. However, this really depends on each individual cases, as I was suggested this way by a qualified therapist.

Your mental well-being and COVID-19

Especially at the moment, majority of us are in lock down due to COVID-19, which can really affect our mental health. If you are accessible to the internet, there are so many resources on there that can help support you, such as the NHS Website Tips on Mental Well-Being Whilst Being At Home. There are also wonderful books to read as well, if that is what you prefer, such as Mindfulness. There are amazing apps you can use to help meditate and ease your well-being. One app I would highly recommend is Headspace, you can try for free and takes you through step-by-step.

The Importance of Addressing Mental Health

So, why is mental health awareness important and beneficial? It does not matter if it is at work or at home or anywhere in the world, there are people out there who needs the support and understanding. Just by educating yourself to understand the basis of what mental health is can really go a long way.

Statistically, women are twice as likely to have mental health disorder in a workplace compared to men. Also, 1 in 6.8 experience mental health problems in the workplace. Anxiety and depression are the main common mental health disorders with 1 adult in 6 will have common mental health disorder.

Please check out Mental Health Foundation for more information and statistics.

Positiveness

We have had a crazy last couple of months, or even longer for people who live outside the UK. But taking care of your own mental well-being can also help you determine a better picture of what your next steps are in life.

Having a mental health disorder is nothing to be ashamed of and its what makes you braver and stronger. This content is our own personal research and response to mental health, the resources that I have attached are credible sources. Please do seek a medical professional for help and support.

By tackling mental health, this can elevate yourself and hopefully take the opportunity to appreciate the important things in life… YOU.