In a country known for the strength and resiliency of its people, it is surprising that mental health is the third most common disability in the Philippines[1]. According to the World Health Organization, even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the country already had one of the highest depression rates in Southeast Asia, affecting more than three million Filipinos[2].
AXA Philippines, one of the leading insurance companies in the country, believes that addressing mental health is just as vital as looking out for your physical health. Earlier this year, they launched their annual AXA Mind Health Study in response to the growing awareness of mental health issues and their impact on physical wellbeing.
Using the AXA Mind Health Index as a guide, which classifies respondents into four states -“flourishing” or the ideal state, followed by “getting by,” “languishing,” and “struggling,” AXA identified 10 skills that you can integrate in your lifestyle to cultivate a healthy mindset and protect your mental wellbeing. Here are five of these skills to give you a head start and help you flourish:
1. Eat good food and exercise regularly
Your physical health behaviors can have a significant effect on your mental health. Remember during our preschool days when our teachers would preach about eating green, leafy vegetables? This food slows the decline of cognitive abilities due to the neuroprotective properties of its nutrients. On top of good nutrition, regular exercise also promotes improved concentration, motivation, and memory. So, eat well, keep moving, and veer away from other unhealthy habits including smoking and drinking. While you’re at it, give yourself a break and have some “me time.”
2. Form close relationships
Human beings are naturally wired as social creatures. The ability to form close relationships is an essential skill and has been shown as a predictor in a person’s ability to cope with stressful life events. Having strong relationships with your loved ones is also directly correlated to a strong immune system, speedy recovery, and even long life! Not to mention that social connectedness also makes us happier than if we were alone.
3. Self-confidence is key
Self-confidence is the belief in one’s ability and is integral in successful self-management of behavior. Having a healthy amount of self-confidence leads to healthier emotions, thought patterns, choices, and behavior. Try to present yourself with a challenge and step out of your comfort zone often. This can help you build self-confidence gradually,
4. Take pride in your achievements
Another important skill is taking pride in our achievements. Being proud of what we’ve accomplished enables us to cultivate a positive image of ourselves and improve self-perception. It’s a way to recognize that you are doing well and acknowledge what you can achieve. Practice noting down your achievements and how you feel once you’ve achieved something in order to build confidence in yourself.
5. Practice self-acceptance
Learning how to embrace your strengths and weaknesses is perhaps one of the most important skills to achieve a flourishing mindset. The ability to fully accept both the positive and negative attributes of ourselves is important, as it is a catalyst for personal development. Self-acceptance also supports the progression towards happiness and self-fulfillment. Try practicing gratitude everyday by writing down three to five things you are grateful for, to help improve your mind health.
With conscious and consistent practice, these skills can enable you to protect and optimize your mental wellbeing. The AXA Mind Health Study aims to share to everyone how mind health is the key to an overall health. AXA also continuously works on breaking the stigma of mental illness by raising awareness on its importance.
Head over to axafittoflourish.com to read up on five more skills that can help you reach the peak of mental health.
[1] WHO (2017) Mental Health Atlas, 2017. World Health Organization. Cited in: https://d-nb.info/1219416096/34#:~:text=Mental%20illness%20is%20the%20third,Western%20Pacific%20Region%20%5B1%5D
[2] https://theaseanpost.com/article/covid-19-impact-mental-health-filipinos