At 10 am, it starts with a soft cough which you soothe with a cup of coffee. By 12:30 pm, it is now a light sniffle, and a string of coughs follow. By this time, you're popping more cough drops than you would care to admit. Somehow, you make it to the end of the day and decide that the only solution is to sleep it off. Unfortunately, the morning comes, and you're only all the worse for it.
The symptoms of dealing with mental health are much less pronounced. Here is an essential guide to gauge if you need a mental health day.
World Mental Health Day, 2022
DISCLAIMER: Features published by Adaaba are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.
#1: Brain Fog
Brain fog is characterized by confusion, a lack of clarity, and forgetfulness. There are a million and one reasons why you could have brain fog. It could result from a stressful work task, a drastic lifestyle change, or a new medication you may be taking.
#2: You're Irritable
You may be dealing with irritability if you find yourself easily frustrated, impatient, or angry over small things. Consider taking a day off to recharge and identify stressors.
#3: You're Constantly ill
Except for pre-existing health conditions, recurring illnesses are a tell-tale sign of chronic stress. You can find more information on how to deal with chronic stress here; Yale Medicine.
#4: Insomnia
Insomnia is a spectrum that goes beyond sleeping late. According to the MayoClinic, a few common symptoms include;
Difficulty falling asleep at night
Waking up during the night
Waking up too early
Not feeling well-rested after a night's sleep
Daytime tiredness or sleepiness
Irritability, depression, or anxiety
Difficulty paying attention, focusing on tasks, or remembering
Increased errors or accidents
Ongoing worries about sleep
#5: You're Drinking More Than You Usually Do
The WHO reports, "There is a causal relationship between harmful use of alcohol and a range of mental and behavioral disorders, other noncommunicable conditions and injuries."
If you notice that your nightly glass of wine has turned into two or more, you could be masking other issues and stressors in your life with alcohol.
#6: You're Consuming More Caffeine Than Usual
You drink more caffeine to deal with your low energy levels, which is only counterintuitive.
#7: Your Performance is Slipping
The best and only solution to take once your performance at work or school begins to slip is to;
Complete any urgent tasks
Delegate any tasks which need to be completed
Take a break
Set a course of action after your vacation is completed
#8: Your Relationships Are Starting to Suffer
Mental exhaustion leaves us with less time for relationships that matter to us. We may find ourselves isolated from those we love most.
#9: You're Constantly Tired
You may need a break if, no matter what you do, you just can't help but respond, "I'm tired." when someone asks how you're doing.
#10: You're Generally Unenthusiastic About Life
If nothing is exciting, you should take some time to recharge and connect with the things that make you feel alive.
We understand that sometimes navigating your mental health requires some assistance. if you would rather seek assistance from someone other than your trusted friends and family, here are some places that may make it easier for you.
Therapy and Counseling Service Provider Recommendations
US:BetterHelp; online counseling services,
UK: Relate; online counseling services,
Abuja, Nigeria; Temple's Counsel and Mind Academy; Wuse 2,
Lagos, Nigeria; Hidden Conversations; Victoria Island,
Share some more in the comments to help others who may need it.
DISCLAIMER: Features published by Adaaba are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.
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