World Mental Health Day 2021: From Self-Care to Raising Awareness, Here’s How to Celebrate It

Posted on: Oct 11, 2021 | | Written by: None

World Mental Health Day 2021: From Self-Care to Raising Awareness, Here’s How to Celebrate It

The last one year has been extremely challenging for everyone. Not only did we learn how to live and work isolated from the outside world, we got to understand ourselves better. Most of us have learnt the things which are most valuable to us. But above all, we’ve learned the power of being resilient. We’ve adapted to uncertainty and, when faced with vulnerability, financial insecurity, social distancing and more, most of us have managed our mental and physical well-being in the best way we could.

Health has, and will always be, one of the focus points of our lives. And mental health is receiving the attention it always should have got. October 10 is recognised as World Mental Health Day, and it’s time that we expand the awareness and importance of mental health even more. This year’s theme is ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’, and its objective is to improve accessibility to mental health resources for everyone, without any interruptions. With that in mind, here are few activities you can try out to spread knowledge and empower people about mental health.

1. Educate your inner circle

Awareness is the first step in promotingthe importance of mental health in our society. The best way to do your bit in raising awareness is starting a conversation and educating people close to you about mental health. The stigma against mental health will not change overnight, but this is a good way to begin it. Not only will it be easier to communicate to your loved ones about the significance of mental health, they in turn can educate others and help in normalising the topic.

2. Keep learning

The power of knowledge is unlimited and unmatchable. One of the best ways to spread awareness around mental health is through education and sharing what we know. And for that you need to keep updating yourself about the issue. Whether through webinars, health journals or from verified and trusted online sources, one needs to keep reading and educating themselves about mental health. You can only be able to make others understand if you are fully aware about the importance of mental health

3. Support a cause

The theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day is focused on trying to get unobstructed mental health to all.It is essential that everyone has access to mental wellbeing support, no matter what their socioeconomic background or geographical location is. Hence, volunteer or support an organisation or group that work for mental health awareness. You can donate money or even volunteer to make the cause stronger and contribute towards building a taboo-free society.

4. Indulge in self-care

The last few months have presented new stressors for many of us at work. A short mindfulness or inclusive fitness activity can help alleviate this feeling by encouraging everyone to take a step back from their to-do lists and refocus. Mindfulness is particularly helpful for breaking unhelpful thought patterns, while a fitness class can help boost self-esteem while lowering stress levels.

5. Invest in a health insurance plan

The coronavirus pandemic has made it clear that healthcare emergencies can come any time and the impact can never be predicted. So, to face such situations and to bear financial burdens during uncertain times, it is important to choose the best health insurance plans that give you a wide range of coverage. The pandemic has had a great impact on everyone’s mental health as well, and many insurers even offer mental health related coverage. One such example is HDFC ERGO’s my:health Suraksha Insurance – Silver Smart Plan, which covers hospitalisation expenses due to mental illnesses.

Conclusion

Mental health is an important conversation in today’s world. Hence, you need to be aware about it and also educate others about it. Take conscious steps to take care of your mental health and prioritize it just as you do for your physical health. To further ease your mental stress, you need to invest in a health insurance plan that benefits you financially and gives an extensive coverage.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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