Being mentally and psychologically healthy is as important as being physically healthy. However, according to statistics, one out of every four people in Pakistan suffers from mental and psychological problems. Additionally, an estimated 36 percent of people in Pakistan suffer from depression and anxiety. Despite these alarming figures, the government is not paying enough attention to the mental health sector. For instance, there is only one psychiatrist for every 100,000 people in Pakistan, with even more dismal figures in rural areas. It is crucial to understand that mental and psychological health significantly affects our thinking ability, emotions, feelings, and attitudes.
The Impact of Mental Health
A psychologically healthy individual can handle stress better and perform daily activities more effectively. Our mental health influences how we think about ourselves, our environment, and others, and how we behave. Being mentally healthy is essential at every stage of life, whether in childhood, youth, or old age. Unfortunately, mental and emotional problems are often suppressed or hidden. For example, if a child suffers from mental confusion or issues, parents might remain silent out of fear that people will think their child is crazy or psychotic.
Addressing Mental Health Issues in Children
When a child does not perform well in school, instead of understanding the reason and finding a solution, parents might turn to religious education as a remedy. This approach often involves sending the child to a seminary, assuming that religious teachings will correct the issue. However, consulting a psychologist to understand the child’s mental capacity, tendencies, and abilities can lead to better outcomes.
Addressing Mental Health Issues in Adolescents
Similarly, when a young person suffers from psychological problems, they might be subjected to long lectures about guidance and good behavior, with an assumption that bad company caused the issue. If the problem persists, it might be attributed to magic or the influence of jinn, leading to visits to spiritual healers. Temporary relief might be observed, not due to the healer’s actions but because the patient’s attention is temporarily distracted from their psychological problem. This often leads to a cycle of changing healers without real improvement.
The Misconceptions and Stigma
A common misconception about mental and emotional health is that a person with a mental disorder is lazy, careless, or disobedient. These negative labels arise from a lack of awareness. Awareness about mental and psychological health can improve the understanding and treatment of psychological problems and diseases.
Steps to Improve Mental Health
A mentally healthy and happy life can be achieved by following a few simple and easy methods:
1. Take Up Positive Activities
Engage in activities that bring joy and satisfaction.
2. Create Order in Your Life
Organization brings beauty and structure to life.
3. Cultivate Sophistication in Yourself and Your Personality
Hazrat Ali says, “Whoever takes care of his inner self, Allah corrects his outer appearance.”
4. Protect Yourself from Hypocritical Thinking and Attitudes
Maintain authenticity and integrity in your thoughts and actions.
5. Balance Your Walk and Posture
The way we walk and sit affects our mood, so create balance and moderation in it too.
6. Take Regular Walks
Physical activity can significantly improve mental health.
7. Avoid the Habit of Procrastination
Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, raising awareness about mental health and following these steps can lead to a mentally healthy and happy life. Seeking help from mental health professionals is essential and should not be overlooked due to societal stigmas.
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