10 October 2023 was World Mental Health Day. It is an illness that affects males to a greater extent and is one of the main causes of death in the Spanish population.
According to Mental Health America, 6 million American men suffer from depression each year, while 3 million face an anxiety disorder. Beyond this, 90% of those diagnosed with schizophrenia by age 30 are men, and 25 percent of those with a binge eating disorder are men. Unfortunately, men are much less likely to seek professional help for their problems.
Among the major mental health problems suffered by men are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and eating disorders.
The WHO defines mental health as "a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, to develop their full abilities, to be able to learn and work well and to contribute to the betterment of their community".
Tips for taking care of mental health
Taking care of your mental health is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life. Here are some tips to help you:
Establish healthy routines: It is very important to have regular times for eating and resting.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity not only benefits your physical health, but also improves your mood and reduces stress.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Meditation, deep breathing and yoga are excellent ways to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Set limits: Learn to say no when necessary and set healthy boundaries in your relationships and activities.
- Focus on the present: Mindfulness (mindfulness) can help you keep your focus on the present and reduce anxiety about the future or the past.
- Maintain social connections: Cultivate positive relationships and seek support from friends and family. Social connection is crucial for mental health.
- Find time for activities you enjoy: Spend time on activities that give you pleasure and satisfaction, whether it is reading, listening to music, pursuing a hobby or enjoying nature.
- Seek professional help when necessary: Don't hesitate to talk to a mental health professional if you feel you need one. They can provide you with the tools and support you need.
- Learn how to manage stress: Develop effective strategies to manage stress, such as problem solving, cognitive restructuring or finding relaxing activities.
Take care of your self-esteem: Practice self-acceptance and work on building a positive self-image. Celebrate your achievements and learn from challenges.
Set realistic goals: Define achievable goals and work towards them step by step. Achieving goals can have a positive impact on your emotional well-being.
Remember that mental health is an integral aspect of your overall wellbeing, and adopting healthy habits can make all the difference to your quality of life. It is always advisable to consult with mental health professionals for personalised guidance if you feel you are going through a difficult time.