Is mental health the same as mental illness? One in two Singaporeans believe that mental health is all about mental illness (source: MindSG (healthhub.sg)). Everyone deserves a break from the daily stressors and as the theme for the World Mental Health Day 2023 states, "Mental health is a universal human right."

Mental wellbeing affects our overall health. It helps to determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Short-lived stress can sometimes boost performance and raise alertness, but prolonged and excessive stress may increase the risk of physical health issues such as heart disease, or mental health issues like depression or anxiety. It is important for individuals to keep their stress levels in check, find ways to reduce it, or seek professional help when required.

There are many different triggers for stress, such as juggling multiple roles or tasks, tackling work or study demands, coping with illnesses, adapting to new lifestyle changes, or managing relationships with others.

Everyone of us, from young to old, should take care of our mental well-being. Maintaining mental wellness reduces vulnerability to mental health struggles, and allows us to better manage the challenges in life. Here are some valuable tips to help you ride te wves of stress in today's fast-paced and demanding world.

 1. Observe your emotions

Find time to recollect yourself at the beginning or at the end of the day. We may not feel positive on all days and it is normal to feel negative emotions sometimes. Acknowledge and accept these emotions instead of brushing them aside, or pretending that they do not exist. Take a pause and identify the cause. This allows you to feel in control and prevent feelings from building up and overwhelming you.

2. Practice self-care

Dedicate time daily to do something that rejuvenates you. This could mean taking a stroll, reading, meditating, exercising or spending quality time with your loved ones. Taking care of yourself allows you to recharge, and helps you build resilience and positivity.

3. Maintain a healthy routine

Ensure you clock in sufficient sleep, eat balanced meals, exercise regularly and step out for fresh air every day. Establishing a daily routine helps create a sense of structure and stability.

4. Disconnect to reconnect

Take a moment to disconnect from your digital devices and social media, reduce screen time and engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as deep breathing exercises. This will help to enhance your mental well-being.

5. Reach out and seek support

Do not bottle up your feelings. Reach out to supportive friends, family members or professionals when you need to talk about your feelings and emotions. Sharing them can provide some relief in difficult times. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is an evidence of self-awareness, courage and strength.

6. Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude starts with noticing small wins in your daily life, buying your favourite food without having to queue or getting to work early without much morning traffic.   

It strengthens our ability to notice the good and keeps us positive, improving our mental health and boosting our relationships with others.

"Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. Adopting some simple self-care strategies in our lives can help enhance our overall quality of life," Dr Guo Xiaoxuan, Clinical Lead of Health Wellness Clinics and Clinic Director of SHP-Punggol.

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For further reading:

• About-mental-well-being. HealthHub. (n.d.).