Does mental health sound like a JOKE to you? 🤔

The Straits Times released an article last Thursday on how 1 in 3 young people have experienced poor mental health symptoms.

I'm not sure how I feel about the reactions. Some people seem to think it's rather funny.

I don't think mental health should be treated like a joke.

Many of those in the older generation tend to view young people as strawberries and should "toughen up."

The reality is that the challenges youngsters face nowadays are much more complicated, and it's typically exacerbated by the rise of social media. There's a fair bit of literature suggesting there are negative impacts like cyber bullying, self-esteem issues and others that stem from the use of social media.

So I think it’s SUPER IMPORTANT TO learn more about mental health and start conversations around it! While the government and other social service agencies have been working to promote good mental health for the past few years, there's still stigma around it.

While often associated with mental illness, it's far from it. Mental health is pretty much like your physical health. If you don't take care of your mental wellbeing, problems will crop up!

It's the same for your physical health! If you don't take care of your body (i.e. consuming too many sweet things), it will increase your chances of getting diabetes.

From the various resources I've read on improving mental wellbeing, the three basic concepts of keeping things in balance is basically to eat, rest and move well! Let's call that ERM for short. Here's why these three are important to keep your mind healthy!

𝐄𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 🥤🥗🍔

A balanced diet provides the nutrients your brain needs to function properly. Certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help regulate mood and reduce the risk of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, for example, support brain function, while a lack of proper nutrition can lead to mood swings and low energy.

𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 (𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩) 😴💤🛌🏼

Sleep is essential for mental recovery and emotional regulation. During sleep, your brain processes emotions and experiences from the day. A lack of sleep/rest can lead to irritability, increased stress, and a higher risk of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Try aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep each day!

𝐌𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 (𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞) 🏋🏻‍♂️💪🏃

Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. Exercise also reduces stress hormones like cortisol, promotes better sleep, and improves cognitive function. Regular movement is linked to improved mood, increased energy levels, and lower rates of mental illness.

Together, these three pillars create a foundation for mental resilience, helping you cope with stress and maintain emotional balance.

So the next time you're feeling your stress levels go up, remember to ERM well 🙌

Start to have more open conversations around mental health with friends and family you trust as well. Have no idea how to start? Well, stay tuned for my next article 👀 You can search up HealthHub's MindSG for more resources regarding mental health!

If you're struggling with your mental health, please do find someone to talk to. My DMs are open (I'm really not a social worker so please don't be scared, I don't bite)! If you'd like to speak to a professional, you could also get started by talking to Wysa by mindline or CHAT by IMH. The Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) hotline is also available 24/7 at 1-767.

#SocialDiscussion #mentalhealth #RealTalk #wellness #lifestyle