5 Ways to Look After Your Mental Health

Posted on: 31st May, 2022

The topic of mental health continues to gain attention here in Singapore. And with a society that is constantly becoming more and more competitive in both the workplace and school, it is no wonder that stress levels are on the rise. Consequently, we are seeing an increase in mental health-related issues in both students and adults, and this is a growing concern, as mental wellness is an integral and essential component of health.

But what should an individual do when a mental health issue occurs? The stress of studying or trying to fulfil an article deadline due to pressure from an assertive colleague or unreasonable client can lead to anxiety, and individuals who may not be skilled enough to handle these moments can be more susceptible to stressful moments that they are unable to cope with. Thankfully, there are ways one can prevent or mitigate such panic attacks or stress-induced emotional fluctuations that exams or work-related deadlines can bring. Here are five tips to help you lead a happier and more fulfilling life.

1. Be Active

For those who are sedentary, this idea will sound appalling. However, some light exercise for 20 to 30 minutes a day is key to coping with low to awful moods, even if it is just a brisk walk in a nearby park or climbing up multiple flights of stairs in an HDB block. In fact, when you exercise, your body and brain will start to produce feel-good chemicals that will have a positive impact on your mood and memory. In addition, after a good workout, you will start to feel more relaxed, due to the release of pent-up stress.

2. Be Kind to Yourself

Do you sometimes entertain thoughts of, “I hate myself”? If you are filled with such feelings of self-loathing, you will have to nip them in the bud. Not only does such thoughts limit your potential, it could also trigger mental health issues such as imposter syndrome, stress, anxiety, or even depression. To combat such unhealthy feelings, one must recognise the signs and symptoms, understand the underlying causes, and make plans to get over these feelings and develop coping mechanisms to feel better.

3. Give Yourself ‘Me’ Time

One good coping mechanism is to start loving yourself more, and what better way than to have some quality “Me” time? Go indulge yourself by watching the latest movies at the cinema, visit a place of interest such as the Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve to marvel at the wonders of nature, or just read a book and have a cup of coffee at a café while you watch the world pass you by. These are some great ways to help take your mind off things.

4. Talk to Someone

 It’s okay to be not okay, you should never attempt to shoulder all your problems on your own. Cliché as it may sound, an issue shared with someone is half the battle won. The stress of studying or having to juggle multiple work assignments can be hard to handle on your own, and should you face such a circumstance, you should talk to someone. Be it a friend, course coordinator in school, or family member, there will always be a listening ear, and potentially solutions to help solve a problem.

5. Know When to Seek Professional Help

Here at PSB Academy, we have staff available on campus to help those who struggle with their mental health. Our counsellors are mental health professionals who you can turn to for objective listening and guidance on issues that you wish to address. You don’t have to reach a crisis point before you talk to us! Our counselling service is confidential and free of charge, and we will help you gain a better understanding of your mental wellbeing and receive the appropriate support that you will need. We can also link you up to the suitable services in the community should you want it.

PSB Academy Cares

Here at PSB Academy, our students’ welfare is of utmost priority. Throughout the course of your life, at certain points, you will face different struggles that might seem very stressful, but that’s ok. Through mental health guidance and counselling, we ensure that you will gain a better understanding of your mental wellbeing. And if you are not the one facing such issues, but know of someone who does, encourage them to follow the above recommended steps as well as seek help. Regardless of the problem’s size, it’s prudent to have it checked and to get it sorted out sooner rather than later.

Click here to learn more about PSB Academy’s mental health topics, as well as tools and techniques that you can use to improve your mental and emotional wellbeing.