The 10th of October may not seem like an important day for most but it is important day to me. Why? Because it is World Mental Health Day.
World Mental Health Day is all about raising awareness and mobilizing efforts to support mental health.
Mental health is far more in the public consciousness these days as we deal with the fallout of a world wide pandemic. This is one of the few good things to come out of Covid-19. Creating greater awareness of mental health issues can only lead to positive discussion. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t still work to do.
Mental health is a topic that is near and dear to my heart and is something that has a deep connection with my life, professionally and personally. Several times throughout my life I’ve suffered from depression, anxiety and also addiction. I talk about this in Dealing With Death And Depression.
I think there’s still a lot of misunderstanding around mental health because it is so variable and hard to define. This includes several areas. These areas involve social, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Mental health affects thoughts, feelings, and actions. If you have positive mental health, you are better equipped to handle stress, and be more productive in your personal and professional life.
If you’re suffering from poor mental health, you are more likely to suffer from a mental health disorder. These disorders include:
- Depression
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Phobias
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
- Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in the UK. 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in UK.
How To Observe #MentalHealthDay
The World Federation for Mental Health organizes World Mental Health Day. Each year, a variety of events are held all around the world to increase awareness about mental health issues.
If someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, big or small, World Mental Health Day is a great way to reach out to them. Sometimes knowing they have someone to reach out to makes a real difference.
You can also donate to an organization that advocates for mental health. If you think you might have a mental health disorder or are at a high risk of getting one, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
My Tips For Mental Health
Over the years I have worked diligently on improving my own mental health. In honour of World Mental Health Day, I’d like to share some of what works form me. If you or someone you know is suffering from poor mental health, you might want to try for yourself.
For me it all starts with getting the health and self care fundementals sorted. These are:
- Water – Most people I meet are chronically dehydrated to different extents. If you’re drinking less than 3 litres of water a day, then you need more. Your body is 60% water, and this needs to be replaced.
- Nutrition – Nutrition is important for good mental health . Improve the nutrients your body has in it by eating a diet rich in whole foods. Simply put, make better food choices most of the time.
- Supplement with daily micro nutrient vitamin and minerals. If you struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, Vitamin D is a must.
- Relax – Learn how to manage day to day pressures by relaxing. A great and extremely healthy way to do this is to meditate. The headspace app is great resource for learning the art of relaxation.
- Improve your health and fitness. This doesn’t need to be going to the gym or lifting weights. It could be yoga or dancing in your home or going for a walk outdoors.
- Create a more positive dialogue within yourself. Try power affirmations to yourself in the mirror. If you don’t know know what this is, I’ve written about it in Mirror Mirror on the Wall.
- Create a daily schedule that covers all of the above to keep yourself accountable.
So that’s a very brief overview of the process I use to keep myself in a positive mental and physical state. This works for me and I’m sure it can work for you or someone close to you too.
Until next time, “Strength for Life”
Davie McConnachie
Davie McConnachie is Scotland’s leading health and wellness coach, multi-award-winning gym owner, motivational speaker and the founder of DMC Fitness, a fitness education facility known as the premier choice for 1-2-1 personal training. He has inspired thousands of people to fall in love with fitness – his true purpose and mission in life.
Diving into the world of fitness and wellness has helped Davie to deal with his own trauma and inner demons. He, overcame many dark times using his own unique methods to continue his cycle of healing.