Address your mental health issues, not only physical health

by, Ain Khairiyyah binti Abdullah

In today’s digital era, health challenges are growing, impacting people physically and mentally. Although we are often quick to address physical health issues, mental health issues are sometimes viewed as trends or less important, even though they deserve the same attention and concern. Mental health affects every aspect of our lives, just like physical health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are real, even if we cannot see them, yet they can have severe consequences if left untreated.

Mental health struggles are not new; they have existed for generations, but stigma often keeps them in the shadows. Fortunately, society is now more open to discussing mental health, and this exposure has helped break some of the old taboos. Still, some people, may view mental health issues as minor or believe that struggling with stress or anxiety is just a normal part of life. This view is outdated, as we now know how these conditions can affect relationships, work, and overall well-being.

Social media has increased awareness, but it has also led to a rise in self-diagnosis, where people recognize symptoms in themselves and label it as a condition without consulting a professional. This can be risky, as mental health is complex and requires proper evaluation. While it is a positive step that people feel more comfortable talking about mental health, self-diagnosis can lead to misunderstandings and mismanagement of issues that might need professional guidance.

Building a culture of mental health awareness is vital. Just as we go to the doctor for physical health check-ups, seeking therapy or talking to mental health professionals should be normalized. Mental health and physical health are interconnected; ignoring one can negatively impact the other. By acknowledging this, we can create a more supportive society that treats mental health concerns with the seriousness and compassion they deserve. Your concern matters, and addressing mental health properly is a step toward a healthier, more empathetic world.***