Mental and emotional depression is on the rise especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. A lot of people are slowly slipping into the doldrums of depression. Whether we know it or not, we all have gone or will go through various times of depression at one point in our lives. Certain situations can trigger mental or emotional depression or even both at the same time. It could be the loss of a job, a loved one; financial bankruptcy, business failure and setbacks; emotional heart break and betrayal just to mention a few. These situations can trigger depression in a way you never thought possible.
And it’s very okay to feel that way sometimes. In fact, it is expected that you feel sad or down sometimes. But when you remain that way for days, and days into weeks, and weeks turn into months, and months become years of emotional turmoil which eventually become mental depression, then there’s a problem.
Everyone goes through these emotional trends and roller coasters, and of course, single mothers are not left out. It’s challenging enough to trudge through the path of single parenthood alone. But then, we have to be careful, we don’t slip into the doldrums of mental depression.
I have had to work on my emotions, and I have tried to keep my act together, so as not to break down completely under the weight of my maternal responsibilities. My, it’s been very challenging especially in these uncertain times that we currently find ourselves living in. With the steady rise of inflation in my country, Nigeria, and the current insecurity issues in the environment coupled with training a teenage child whose hormones are developing rapidly, leaving any mother who takes her role seriously to be on her toes now and then, I can say I have had a lot to deal with lately. And the only thing which has kept me sane is my dependence on God and His Word.
Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee. ( See Isaiah 26:3). When you keep your mind on God and what He has said in His Word, your mind will be at peace. Even in the midst of turbulent situations, you will find your heart and mind will be at peace. This is the foundation of your mental health. If you allow your mind to be permeated by the light and love of God from His Word, there’s no doubt, all worry, anxiety and doubts will find the single exit out of your life!
Secondly, having a good social support. Having someone you can talk to every now and then is highly recommended and is essential for a sound mental health. Have a friend to just chat with over a cup of coffee or tea and ‘exhale’ mentally!
Man is a social being and needs to socialize with other people in order to survive and thrive. Sometimes, talking through stuff with someone you can trust, can go a long way in helping you cope with mentally and emotionally stressful situations. I know, because this has helped me a lot. Recently, I got connected to someone with whom I just chat with regularly and we talk a great deal about work related issues and other common interests which helps me mentally exhale.
Thirdly, you should have happy distractions. Do the things you enjoy and love doing that bring you joy. Schedule a time to do them without interruption from the kids. It could be trying out a new recipe or taking a walk to just admire nature. It could also be singing in a choir or playing a musical instrument. Anyway you want to do it, just ensure you engage yourself in happy distractions.
Finally, taking care of yourself cannot be overemphasized. Eat well and enjoy your meal. Take time out to dine once in awhile out if you can afford it. Also, eat healthy too. Include lots of fruits, vegetables and nuts in your diet. Sleep well and take time out to rest. Always remember that to function at your optimum as a mother, employee or business woman in these unprecedented times, your mental health is your highest responsibility right now. Because without a sound mind, there’s no proper you!
Comments
Post a Comment