If you just Google the word ‘mental health’ it would show you plenty of results from definition to its issues.
Just to begin with, the definition of mental health states, ‘ a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being’ . Until January this year, I had no idea what it meant. I didn’t realize the cause and effect the state of my mental health had on my life, like most of us, I lived my life accepting the ups and downs being confused. Some days are terrible and some days are a moment filled with awe. I have learned plenty of things since January mainly about mental health.
You know, sometimes we come across people who are so happy and content and wonder how they can be and also be able to make others laugh too. I personally don’t know how they do it. However, I have some insights that I believe would be helpful.
Step 1: Seek professional help: I found a therapist, and it’s so important to find someone who understands the journey and remains supportive of your progress. I remember during the first visit I was really shy and a little bit inhibited. She helped break the ice by asking questions that seemed like I was helping myself. The ambience was the perfect setting with bright colors that automatically lifted my mood. If like me, it’s difficult to talk to family about your mental health, a therapist is incredible.
Step 2: Surround yourself with love: Being an introvert, depression and anxiety can creep in without notice. It’s important to surround yourself with people you trust who make you feel safe. For me that’s going to therapy, having understanding work colleagues and friends. I remember texting two of my friends and telling them I don’t want to be sent to a psychiatric hospital and if in case I was being sent there then they should visit me every few days. I also developed a habit of talking to myself and found it weird until my therapist told me it was absolutely fine. When someone is going through mental health issues it is really hard for them to speak about it. And in today’s generation, I think it depends on our mentality and how we look at it, few might walk away from people like me or they might offer a helping hand. Even if you just take your time and listen to them, they would be really happy. I used to hesitate and still do when I want to talk about it with my friends.
Step 3: Distract yourself by staying busy: We often feel that we don’t mean anything to anyone but that’s not true because we do mean a lot to some people and they would love to help us when we’re in trouble. Another way to attempt control of your mental health would be by having a gratitude journal daily and by doing things that make you happy. I was advised by my therapist to have a gratitude journal, do things I love such as reading books, call a friend when I feel upset, visit the zoo because I love animals. The results would of course take time and you need to have patience because it will be worth it. 
I try to live by this quote “Sometimes we live for the days we die for”.
