By Osarennoma Ogbeide
It is no news that the past few weeks have no doubt been challenging for everyone. In the midst of the glaring crisis, many complained of how their mental health was in shambles, their mind exhausted and their heart broken. Even as a psychologist in training, I also feel mentally drained when certain circumstances present themselves and seem obstinate to avert. 2020 has been an intriguing year, from the Covid 19 pandemic, to the seemingly unending ASUU strike, down to the state of the country and other twists and turns in between. Surely, you must be an executive hard guy if none of the winds of this year shook you.
Even when certain situations cannot be avoided, there are positive coping mechanisms that can see you through them while they last. Some of which I have employed particularly this year.
Choose to take a break: Being aware that a particular situation is overwhelming for you is one thing. Making the conscious decision to take a break is another. Don’t think you can handle it, take a break!
Take a break: Choosing to take a break takes you a step closer to decluttering your mind. It could be a break from work, or a break from social media. Seeing content on these platforms could trigger you mentally, so it is better to stay off for a while. This is not you running away from the obvious as some may think, instead it is a necessity for you to remain sane and power up to come back stronger.
Don’t be scared to ask for help: A problem shared is a problem half solved right? If you need therapy, that is perfectly normal. You’re not odd for wanting to seek professional help.
Realise what is in your circle of control: Things that you have the power to change or influence are within your circle of control. Frustration sets in when you are constantly worried about things outside your circle of control. Think again, would me worrying over this issue change the situation? Do I have the power to change the current status? If your answer is no, then stop worrying. A simple example is you worrying about what people think of or about you. You don’t have control over people’s thoughts, so certainly that is outside your circle of control.
Get occupied with other activities: This could involve making or listening to music, catching up with friends, praying and meditating, watching movies, baking, reading or basically trying something new. The list could go on, and it really helps!
Don’t wallow in self-pity: This is where you stop yourself from making comparisons and pitying yourself or even inviting others to pity you as well. “Why is my own always different?” “But look at my mates now”, all these aren’t necessary. If everyone’s story was the same, where would the spice of life be? Own your own journey and focus on your own race, there’s no time for self-pity.
Be positive: I always say that in negativity, there is positivity. Beyond saying it, I am practical with it. I may not win at everything, but instead of thinking I failed at something, I remind myself that I just learned. There’s always room for more experiences.
A combination of these key points above would go a long way in rescuing your mind from drowning in a sea of overwhelming stress. It is worthy to note that there are some negative coping skills that people employ during a crisis, which last temporarily only to boomerang with negative consequences. Drinking, smoking, truancy, extravagancy are some negative coping skills. Be aware of your mental health status, make the right choices and you’ll come back stronger!
