YOU MATTER

One of the great stigmas of the 21st century is mental illness. When you break your arm, everyone runs over to comfort you; but when you tell people you’re depressed, everyone runs the other way. The worst part of having it is that people expect you to behave as if you don’t. This is the world we live in, and it’s kind of frustrating.

The number of Filipinos suffering from depression or anxiety attacks seem to have increased after the government imposed lockdown due to the Covid-19 outbreak. In a community where your actions are being suppressed because of the pandemic, how can you get a grip on yourself? The answer is to breathe. Mindful breathing is a basic yet powerful meditative practice.  Breathing is not just a process of inhaling and exhaling — there’s more to it. It helps anyone get over their struggles before it turns into something more serious. By following the acronym B.R.E.A.T.H.E., you too could fight mental illness bit by bit until you are free from its grasp. 

Break habits that you don’t need.

Everyone has at least one bad habit. A bad habit can impede your happiness and social life. These days, we tend to have a lot of habits because we have lots of time to spend. But do you think that these habits of yours really help you or do they slowly wreck your personality? It is important to cut off things that don’t deserve you and your time. It may not be easy to break it at once, but the key is perseverance and consistency.

Remember things and people you’re grateful for.

Acknowledging the good things you already have in life is the strongest foundation of prosperity. Never forget those people who surround you including your family, friends, mentors, and advisors. Seeking help is not a crime. Try to communicate even when it is uncomfortable or uneasy. One of the best ways to heal is to let everything out. You will realize one day how truly grateful you are that you have those persons in your life.

Ease your body.

Never abuse your body. It is your biggest investment that you will ever have in your life. Learn to take care of it. Exercising for at least 20 – 30 minutes is a great help not just to your body but also to your mind. This can be done inside your house since not everyone can go outside due to the pandemic. You can also do it together with your family to strengthen your bond. It is an excellent way to train your body and let those tight muscles be at ease.  

Allow yourself to slow down.

All of us have gone through the phase where we thought we were being left behind. Always remember that rushing ruins everything. Learn to take a break. Your progress may be small, but remember that progress is better than nothing. Life is tough, but so are you. Hurrying things that you think are worthless will not help you. It can destroy your morale and determination in achieving things and might lead to some serious mental illnesses. Anything worth having is worth waiting for. Just take everything slowly and take control of it.

Take a moment to relax.

A lot of stress was given to us because of the pandemic. We never have time to relax because we worry too much. We constantly think of problems such as where to get food to feed the family, or where to get gadgets or a stable Internet connection because they are required for having online classes. Due to these things, we never have time to rest and have a relaxing moment. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax. Take this moment. Relax your jaws, inhale slowly, and exhale slower. It is a great way to purify your thoughts and cleanse your soul.

Health is your priority.

Nothing compares to your mental health. Mental pain is maybe less seen than physical pain, but it is more common and not easy to bear. It is easier to say that your arm is broken rather than saying that your mind is tearing down. We normally do not give much attention to our mental health because we truly never see its danger to us. Prioritize your physical health, as well as your mental health.

Ease your mind.

The mind is the trickiest and slyest part of our body. Don’t believe everything you think. You either control your mind, or it will control you. Make the attainment of peace of mind your highest goal and organize your life around it.  Train it well. A calm mind will lead to a better self. 

You may be one of the millions of people who are struggling in fighting this invisible enemy. Take note that you have never been a burden. It is okay not to be okay. Don’t give up and keep going. In these times where our safety is the utmost priority, we must stay positive inside and leave the negative outside. Remember, YOU MATTER!

LAYOUT BY: Laiza Simeoune B. Sanchez

PHOTO SOURCE(S): tumblr.com