The past 18 month have been an incredible challenge and the emotional and mental impact has left nobody untouched.
Many people are afraid of the word depression.
There are many facets to depression: becoming anti social, disruption of sleep patterns, loss of real human connections. This time has reminded us of how fragile we can be and the impact on our mental well being has been heavy. We are still learning the lessons from this ongoing pandemic and I will share a key action you can take today to help yourself and others.
Invest in people when you are doing well and don’t think you don’t need anybody.
Here’s an idea. Start making this your New Year Resolution and act upon it today. The most healing thing we can do for ourselves and others is to reach out and help, to be there, to love one another. There is a tremendous value in service. Helping others provides you with a positive return on your mental wellness. If someone asks how you are doing, they genuinely care about the answer.
Call someone today and ask “Are you okay?”
And then simply listen. Service is the thing.
Thank you for adding this and the Dante article to your blog! No matter our personal interests, we all need to be alert to our own emotional challenges as well as those in our circles. And we can always learn from the great writers of the past no matter how enthusiastic we are regarding our special interests!
Depression has become much more rampant during the pandemic. People are cut off from potential sources of joy and warmth. Get out and get moving! Exercise is a good anti-dote. Examine your habits. Drinking more alcohol, it is a downer in the long run. Same with coffee in the long run. Pat yourself on the back for a few good accomplishments per day. Set goals. Talk to friends.
Remember “Mental Health, Yaeh!”.
Wise and timely words, Mark. Reminds me of one of my favorite quotes:
““Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle” Ian Macleren