Commemoration of World Mental Health Day observed annually on October 10th
Let's Talk Mental Health: A Crucial Conversation for World Mental Health Day.
For four years, Kazakhstan has been marking World Mental Health Day, hosting events aimed at fortifying and preserving mental wellbeing in every corner of the nation. Amid the ongoing pandemic, the worldwide mental health landscape has dramatically altered, with millions grappling against the strain of lockdowns, job losses, and the grief of loved ones.
Take Ashymgul Yeserkulova, a 68-year-old resident of the capital Nur-Sultan, who faced an arduous journey during the lockdown. Widowed ten years ago, she managed a security job and walked tens of kilometers daily due to the suspension of public transport. The stress took a toll on her, leading to a severe health crisis in July.
"Drenched by the rain on my way home from work, I suddenly fell ill. There wasn't a single medicine in the pharmacies, and the queues outside were relentless. It was psychologically grueling," shared Yeserkulova, reflecting on her experience during the pandemic.
Countless individuals around the world have experienced similarly agonizing predicaments. The unprecedented challenges triggered by COVID-19 have left many battling anxiety, despair, and lingering depression.
On a more positive note, some have seized the opportunity quarantine presented, using the time to introspect and reconnect with themselves. Let's not forget, even if you've lost your job now, you've been given a chance to explore within yourself. As consulting psychologist Maxim Isaakov puts it, "quarantine might not be so bad after all."
During the lockdown, many in Nur-Sultan turned to specialists for help, seeking solace from the stresses of isolation. Some fearing to bring the virus home, clung onto the reassurance of psychologists who advocated for optimism: Believe that everything will be alright for us. Positive thoughts have the power to heal.
So, what can you do to foster a positive mental state amid the chaos? Liana Koishiyeva, president of the public fund "Rukhani Qogham Alemi," suggests focusing on the bright side: If we set our minds on positivity, nothing can bring us down. However, it's essential to recognize that this isn't always an easy task, and seeking help from professionals can be a vital step towards better mental health.
When asked about creating positive emotions, psychologists recommended immersing oneself in old classic movies, engaging in self-improvement books, and distancing oneself from those who perpetuate negative beliefs. After all, every individual deserves to live a healthy, happy life, and self-care is one of the most important steps towards that goal.
P.S. Here are a few strategies to boost your mental wellbeing:
- Cultivate Social Connections: Engage in activities that foster a sense of belonging and purpose—building and maintaining social networks.
- Embrace Mindfulness and Joy in Daily Life: Focus on life's smaller joys and practice mindfulness exercises to reduce stress.
- Prioritize Quality Sleep: Establish a consistent sleep routine to help improve sleep hygiene.
- Utilize Digital Mental Health Interventions: Digital platforms can provide effective mental health support during times of isolation.
- Spend Time in Nature: Immerse yourself in natural environments to relax, improve your mood, and increase mental clarity.
- Engage in Creative or Intellectual Activities: Reading, learning, and stimulating the mind can provide mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment.
- Access Mental Health Care: Proactive strategies like regular mental health assessments and linkage to mental health platforms can help reduce mental health challenges.
- Embracing the power of science and technology, digital platforms can provide effective mental health support during times of isolation, offering a crucial resource for those struggling with anxiety, despair, and lingering depression.
- To foster better mental health, one should not overlook the importance of self-care in health-and-wellness, integrating practices like engaging in creative or intellectual activities, spending time in nature, and focusing on life's smaller joys to cultivate a positive mental state amidst the chaos.
