Nurturing Youth Mental Health

What is mental health?

According to WHO (World Health Organization)

"Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio-economic development."

In this blog, we embark on a journey of understanding and compassion, as we explore the profound impact of mental health on youth. We begin with a personal story of struggle and resilience, shedding light on the importance of early education about mental well-being. From the vulnerability of childhood to the challenges faced in adulthood, we delve into the critical need for support and resources to empower young minds. By addressing the increasing rates of mental health disorders and the factors contributing to them, we hope to create a safer, more understanding environment for the younger generation. Let's break the silence surrounding mental health and build a community that fosters resilience and empathy.

The Journey of a Brave Soul:

Throughout my life, I faced numerous obstacles, with mental health being a constant companion. At the tender ages of 7 and 14, I experienced nerve-wracking breakdowns, and even in my 20s, the battle persisted as severe schizophrenia gripped my reality. My story highlights the importance of educating children from a young age about mental health. No age is immune to the struggles of the mind; even the youngest souls can grapple with the weight of depression.

A Journey into the Unknown:

As puberty ushered in hormonal changes, I felt a shift in my psyche, but there was no one to help me make sense of the chaos within. Uneducated about mental illness, my behavior became wild and misunderstood. Even my loving parents, unable to comprehend my plight, resorted to misguided actions, leading to more pain than healing. In a society where knowledge about mental health is scarce, many suffer in silence, yearning for understanding.

Breaking Free from Stigma and Shame:

My journey took an unexpected turn when I discovered the truth in my 30s - mental illness ran in my family. My mother's brother battled bipolar disorder, and the shame associated with such conditions clouded our family's understanding of mental health. This stigma led to my painful eviction from home at the age of 20, a wound that remains unhealed even after three decades. It is crucial to realize that mental illness does not define one's character; we are not "bad" people trying to be "good," but rather individuals seeking healing on a difficult path.

Rising Concerns: The Youth Mental Health Crisis

The world is witnessing an alarming rise in mental health disorders among the younger generation. The pressures of modern life, academic challenges, and societal expectations take a toll on their mental well-being. The impact of social media and technology further exacerbates feelings of loneliness and anxiety, creating a disconnection from the world around them.

Empowerment through Education:

To combat the growing mental health crisis, we must prioritize youth mental health. By educating children about mental well-being from an early age, we instill the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate life's challenges. Breaking the silence surrounding mental health, we create a supportive environment where seeking help is embraced rather than shunned.

Building Resilience:

The journey to mental well-being involves promoting positive coping strategies, such as mindfulness, self-care, and seeking professional help when needed. Additionally, we must address the systemic issues that hinder access to mental health services, ensuring that support is accessible to all.

Conclusion:

Let us stand together in creating a world where youth mental health is a priority. By sharing our stories, breaking the silence, and fostering empathy, we can build a resilient community that embraces mental well-being. No longer shall we stigmatize mental illness; instead, we will pave the way for understanding, support, and healing. The journey may be challenging, but together, we can make a difference. Let us think about the impact we can have and take a step towards creating a better world for our youth.