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World Mental Health Day is observed annually on 10 October, and the theme for 2022 is “Make mental health for all a global priority” as per the World Health Organization.

Of course, mental health encompasses a broad scope of topics, with many serious disorders that are best left for qualified professionals to discuss.  However, a lot about mental health is accessible and easy to understand, and everyone should know and practice the basics from day to day. Learning how to prioritise your own well-being is crucial in order to be a well-functioning member of our community. And it starts with a single question: How are you, really? Not just on the surface. And when you ask your friends and colleagues how they are, do you listen to what they’re really saying? And do you listen to yourself?

The best way to know the state of your own mental health is to ask yourself tough questions, and then be honest with yourself. It’s important to know that if you’re actually not okay, that’s okay too. There is help. Sometimes, people can go for years with undiagnosed conditions like depression or burnout, without even knowing it. But when you finally have a name for what you’re feeling, there are ways to manage it so that you can thrive, and not just survive.

If you feel like you’re not fully yourself, ask yourself these questions:

Am I constantly tired even with enough sleep?

Do I dread doing everyday activities, or avoid activities I used to enjoy very much?

Do I feel easily triggered, have sudden anger outbursts or cry for no apparent reason?

Do I have trouble saying that I love life or find it difficult to place a high value on myself and those around me?

If you answered yes to even just one of the above, it might be helpful to speak to a trusted friend or family member about your experience. It might also be a great idea to schedule an appointment with a therapist or counsellor who will be able to help you navigate these feelings, and find ways to change them.

Here are some easy ways to keep mentally healthy:

  • Make an effort to connect with other people and spend time with friends.
  • Get regular exercise.
  • Get outdoors as often as you can.
  • Practice mindfulness and intentionally take note of small details about your experience during the day.
  • Get involved in a community, charity or religious environment, which will help give you purpose.

Here are some organisations you can contact if you’d like someone to walk this journey of mental well-being with you, some of which offer free services:

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