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Why we should prioritise our mental health-Nurse Joy

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Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which a person realises their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and are able to make a contribution to their community.

Young people today have many challenges that impact their wellbeing, and can sometimes feel like they’re not able to cope with the demands of life, or aren’t being adequately productive and fruitful. We all want to contribute to our communities meaningfully, which is another reason why prioritising our mental health is crucial.

Some challenges to mental health

  • Transition from school/tertiary education to labour market
  • Heading families in the absence of parents
  • Dealing with relationship matters and gender-based violence
  • Unintended pregnancies
  • Living with HIV
  • High unemployment rates, especially among young graduates and school leavers

A link to the COVID-19 pandemic

The impact of COVID-19 is also seen in mental health. Anxiety and depression symptoms have risen dramatically among the youth. The economy lockdowns, wide ranging impacts of school closures, labour market crises and high unemployment rates have all left a mark on the mental health of the youth. We need adequate support and timely intervention to help us bounce back as we recover from the COVID-19 crisis. Graduates face an uphill task to find and keep a job; putting them at an elevated risk of experiencing mental health issues.

Other factors that impact mental health

Youth with pre-existing conditions like substance abuse disorders, those coming from lower income backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ and gender diverse groups should make sure that they prioritise their mental health.

Signs and symptoms of mental health problems

Early detection and prevention of mental health problems are critical in managing the spread of mental health problems. The early warning signs to pay attention to include:

  • Eating or sleeping too much or too little
  • Pulling away from people and usual activities
  • Having low/no energy
  • Feeling numb/like nothing matters
  • Having unexplained aches & pains
  • Feeling hopeless/helpless
  • Smoking/drinking/using substances more than usual
  • Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried/scared
  • Yelling/fighting with family, friends/colleagues
  • Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
  • Having persistent thoughts or memories you can’t get out of your head
  • Hearing voices/believing things that aren’t true
  • Thinking of harming yourself/others
  • Inability to perform daily tasks e.g. taking care of self, getting to school/work

How to maintain positive mental health

  • Have a balanced nutrition by eating well
  • Exercise regularly
  • Sleep adequately
  • Develop coping skills
  • Avoid isolation and loneliness
  • Practice positive thinking
  • Get professional help when needed

If your mental state gets worse, or you’re worried about someone you know, help is available. You are not alone, so talk to someone you trust. Sharing a problem is often the first step to recovery.

About the author: Nurse Joy is a Social Worker who has facilitated numerous HIV/AIDS programmes.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).

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