"Yat nari pujyante, tat ramte devta." In India, since ages, people have understood that for a happy and healthy community, we must prioritize the happiness of women.
When discussing gender, it's essential to recognize the unique struggles each face.
Women, in particular, are more vulnerable when it comes to mental health, and many experience challenges without knowing how to address them.
Men also face intense mental health issues, which must be discussed separately, a topic I will address in a future article.
However, this article focuses on the mental health challenges women encounter and how to deal with it.
I thought of begining the article with a glimpse of how it is different for Male and female.
Often, we overlook the unique ways in which mental health impacts men and women differently. Let's consider ADHD as an example. In many instances, ADHD can morph into depression. For a boy, ADHD might mean struggling with focus, being overly active, and reacting strongly. On the other hand, for a girl, it could translate into difficulty concentrating, being quiet, and retreating into an imaginative world.
This discrepancy extends beyond ADHD to other mental health issues. When it comes to anger, for instance, a man might express it through loud outbursts, while a woman might internalize it, choosing silence or tears.
As we navigate through adolescence, the constant flux of hormones adds yet another layer of vulnerability. It's essential to recognize and monitor these changes closely.
The old excuse of "I don't have time" doesn't hold up. Prioritizing our mental well-being isn't just about self-care—it's about being able to positively impact the lives of those around us.
The irony lies in the fact that women themselves have forgotten the importance of prioritizing their own happiness for a fulfilling life.
Understanding that our hormones and our behavior, as females, render us vulnerable to mental health struggles, we navigate through continuous mental chatter, the feeling of being misunderstood, the regret of words spoken hastily, and the suppression of emotions and needs. On top of these challenges, we face the complexities of baby blues, menopause, PMS, and yet, we fail to acknowledge that all these issues manifest in physical symptoms such as weight gain, lifestyle disorders, and mood swings, which are reflections of ignored mental health. Therefore, I urge you to read and share this article with your tribe.
How to do it?
1. Acknowledge: Start by recognizing and accepting your emotions and mental state. This step is crucial because it allows you to confront any challenges or struggles you may be facing.
2. Write Journal: Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and understanding. Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences regularly. It can help you gain insight into your patterns and triggers, as well as track your progress over time.
3. Pranayama is a must: Incorporating pranayama, or breathwork, into your routine can have numerous benefits for your mental and physical well-being. Practice deep breathing exercises to calm the mind, reduce stress, and increase mindfulness.
4. Me Time: Carve out time in your schedule for yourself each day. Use this time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's reading, taking a bath, or going for a walk in nature.
5. Girl Tribe Connection: Surround yourself with supportive female friends and create a sense of community. Spend time together, whether in person or virtually, to share experiences, provide encouragement, and offer mutual support.
6. Join Community: Joining online or local communities focused on mental health and well-being can provide valuable resources, support, and a sense of belonging. Engage with others who understand and can offer guidance on your journey.
7. Keep Learning: Lifelong learning is essential for personal growth and mental well-being. Challenge yourself to learn new things, whether it's a hobby, skill, or topic of interest. Stimulating your mind can boost confidence, creativity, and overall satisfaction with life.
8. Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for support from those around you. Whether it's friends, family, or a professional counselor, having a support system in place can make a significant difference in your well-being.
9. Daily Engagement: Make it a habit to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment every day. This could be anything from exercise, creative pursuits, spending time with loved ones, or volunteering. Regularly engaging in activities that nourish your soul can boost your mood and overall well-being.
10. Meditate: Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mindfulness. Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can have profound effects on your mental and emotional health.
By incorporating these steps into your life, you can cultivate greater well-being and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Remember to prioritize self-care and be gentle with yourself along the way.
Love and Light for all!
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