The Sunday Mail
Life Issues with FGK
MENTAL health is under siege now more than ever.
Feelings of fear, insecurity, hate and loneliness seem to be affecting most people. Economic woes, political upheavals and the disintegration of the social fabric are some of the biggest problems the world is facing.
No one is safe or spared from these challenges.
However, Africans seem to be affected the most. The ongoing Covid-19-induced lockdown is making the situation even worse. The annihilation of the human race and economies leaves a trail of uncertainty and casts doubt on future prospects.
Therefore, we have become vessels of anxiety. Many of our people are deeply stressed, unhappy, afraid and hopeless.
If we do not talk about mental health problems, we might possibly lose our loved ones in the same way we have lost a”normal” world to the pandemic.
Anxiety, in normal circumstances, is a vital part of our being.
In the right dose, it triggers our mind to respond to specific actions.
It is the motivation that allows us to face danger and challenge difficult and threatening circumstances.
We all remember how most of us studied better by just knowing final examinations were around the corner, or the feeling you get when you wake up in the morning to prepare for a job interview. It is also the same on the eve of a wedding.
However, these kinds of emotions should not last longer than necessary.
When anxiety caused by a pending event triggers an adrenaline rush which lasts even after the source of emotion has been dealt with, then you need professional assistance.
The difference between anxiety and fear is that fear is directed towards a certain object or situation, but anxiety is directed towards nothing.
According to a study, people who are persistently anxious are likely to develop conditions like coronary heart disease, gastrointestinal problems, arthritis, migraines, allergies and thyroid disease.
People with anxiety disorders are four times more likely to develop high blood pressure.
Studies have shown a relationship between anxiety and reduced white blood cells function, a sign of a weakening immune system.
The things that we see, hear and feel are all fuelling anxiety in us.
This is a recipe for disaster, which often lead to mental breakdown, maniac behaviour and suicide.
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems, and like any other psychological health challenge, the stigma associated with it encourages the host to conceal it.
It is, therefore, important that we restore our social fabric and treat relationships with the sanctity they deserve.
We used to visit each other and spend time together, which is now impossible for most families.
Most people now prefer to call, text or send WhatsApp or Facebook messages.
But while this is less costly, the technology is turning against us.
Cyber relationships can never replace physical bonding, which is instrumental in promoting real love.
Being in physical contact with a loved one can help you easily detect if something is wrong.
Social media or a phone call can never show the real emotion of the person on the other end of the line.
Financial constraints cause most of the anxiety that people face.
For instance, in this lockdown we have informal traders and commuter omnibus drivers that are currently not allowed to operate.
Just imagine the kind of stress they could be under probably because they can no longer put food on the table or they are unable to settle an assortment of bills.
Government should be commended for bringing relief to these vulnerable groups through donating foodstuffs and cushioning allowances.
Similarly, it is important to seek help and support whenever stress, fear and depression kicks in and overwhelms you.
Even Paul the Apostle warns in Philippians 4 verse 6: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Whenever you are anxious, seek help by talking to someone mature.
Steaming off always helps.
Also, studies have shown participation in leisure, social or religious gatherings such as attending church can improve self and life satisfaction, which helps in reducing depression and anxiety.
Isolation is dangerous.
Do not abandon your family and friends.
You always need them to keep a sane mind.
Quote of the week: Society needs each other now more than before.
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