The President's Message 12/12/22

“Mental health awareness doesn’t mean fighting stress, anxiety, depression and other everyday mental health issues, rather it means consciously modulating the habits that intensify those issues. Once you are in control of your habits, instead of checking your habits, you would automatically be in a much better shape, both mentally and physically.” ―Abhijit Naskar

A hard realization many of us face when discussing mental health awareness is it’s not about the symptoms. Symptoms are just indicative of our need to improve healthy habits. Mr. Naskar highlights we need to stop worrying about controlling our symptoms and more on addressing our habits. This time of year is difficult for many because we focus on controlling the circumstance instead of focusing on healthy lifestyle behaviors.

How are you coping with the disappointments this season can bring? What are your healthy habits?

A year ago, I was fighting COVID-19. My world forever changed when my fiancé and I were diagnosed. He was hospitalized and lost his fight to COVID a month after being diagnosed. I was hospitalized on Christmas Day and survived. It was a hectic experience.

Today, I am still learning how to develop healthy habits to face daily mental health issues. I have faced many important days without him. In my pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, I have learned how to acknowledge the horrific without missing the blessings. I have struggled with post-traumatic stress.

In this journey, I found it more important to stick closer to my family and friends, and to share what I feel. I don’t look for them to help me change my feelings or to even encourage me to “get over it”. I simply look to them for understanding and compassion.

Your story may not be the same as mine. However, learn your healthy habits. Connect with a friend or therapist to discuss your experiences and to begin the road to healing. Create new traditions to replace the sad memories. If you need more support, reach out to a therapist, faith-based counselor or a very trusted friend! Do not isolate yourself because that leaves you alone with your thoughts which can cause more harm than good. Explore other self-care options as you embark on your healthier lifestyle.