Mental Health Awareness
Oct 07, 2021
The Layers of Mental Health Awareness
Mental health awareness encompasses various aspects, and it's essential to unravel the different layers:
1. Societal Awareness
This involves understanding mental health from a broader societal perspective, including awareness among employers, employees, friends, and family members. It's about recognizing the mental health struggles of others around you.
2. Personal Disclosure
This aspect is about making others aware of what we are dealing with individually. It's about being open about our issues to foster understanding and support.
3. Self-Awareness
Arguably the most critical, yet least discussed, aspect of mental health awareness is self-awareness. This entails a deep introspection into our behaviors and internal experiences.
The Importance of Self-Awareness
While societal awareness and personal disclosure are crucial, self-awareness is where true transformation begins. Here's why:
Confronting Internal Discomfort
Focusing on others is often easier than looking inward because self-examination requires confronting personal discomforts and struggles. Whether it be anxiety, depression, or unhealthy behaviors, understanding these aspects about ourselves is the first step toward genuine healing.
Reflection Through Behaviors
Our behaviors often reflect our attempts to navigate our internal experiences. For example, compulsive phone checking or unhealthy eating habits can indicate underlying emotional struggles.
Breaking the Cycle
When we ignore self-awareness, we unintentionally perpetuate negative patterns in our relationships, families, and communities. By becoming more self-aware, we can break these cycles and contribute positively to our surroundings.
Practical Steps for Self-Awareness
Examine Unhealthy Behaviors
Identify behaviors you engage in that you wouldn't recommend to others. Ask yourself why you partake in these actions and what internal discomfort they might be resolving.
Mindful Observation
Spend time observing your emotional experiences without judgment. Whether it's anxiety in large groups or discomfort sitting alone, understanding these feelings is crucial.
Curiosity Over Judgment
Approach self-examination with curiosity rather than criticism. Ask yourself questions like, "Why do I feel this way?" and "What underlying issue am I avoiding?"
The Larger Impact
Starting with self-awareness not only benefits you personally but also creates a ripple effect, positively impacting your relationships, communities, and society at large. When individuals work on themselves, they bring their best selves into the world, fostering healthier environments.
