Mental Wellness Is Life

Tackling The Reality of Mental Health Amidst Life's Struggles

They say when life throws you lemons, make lemonade. But what if your current reality of stress and anxiety has turned this task into an insurmountable mountain?

Yes, the background whispers in society shout, "you're weak," "you need to get over it," "you have no excuse."

The truth is we don't get to choose our mental moments of defeat; sometimes, it catches us off guard and turns us right over.

People may not know that persons who struggle with stress and anxiety already beat themselves down with negative self-talk.

The stigma in society is entirely defeating as it relates to mental wellness. There is this constant point to prove that we can overcome our mental stressors and anxieties without asking for help.

Overcoming mental illness is learning to ask for help, knowing it is ok; this is the beginning of true strength.

Stress And Anxiety amongst Males And Females

Both women and men face varying levels of stress and anxiety. It is said that women face higher levels of stress and anxiety than males, physically and emotionally.

In a study performed by American Psychology Association, it was found that women faced feelings of nervousness or anxiousness at 38% while the male experienced it at 34%.

Though the female percentage was higher, it still showed that males also experience stress and anxiety.

Here's a list of surprising risk factors surrounding the cause of stress and anxiety in males:

• Financial instability

• Physical ill-health

• Sexual Health Problems

• Employment challenges

• Pregnancy

• Birth of a baby

• Social isolation

• Separation

• Divorce

These risk factors challenged women who tend to be plagued with stress or anxiety:

• Hormonal changes

• Trauma

• Genetics

• Job security

• Relationship issues

• Finances

• Separation

• Divorce

Stress and Anxiety amongst Mothers

As mothers, it is critical that the predisposition of females facing anxiety in their lifetime is understood and not taken for granted.

The Women's Health Organization shared the statistics of research as it relates to anxiety disorders in women. The study exposed that women are more likely than males to face anxiety disorder. It is also said that 1in 5 women are affected by anxiety disorders in the United States of America.

What does this say, Mothers? These studies seek to highlight the truth and the dangers faced as a women and a mother regarding anxiety.

Speaking up and getting help are essential. Battling and struggling don't prove a point; the core of it is fear and pride.

It's ok to be afraid of how others will perceive you as weak but think of yourself, your children, and your family and how being your best self is important.

As a mother, it's hard to find the time to figure out the root of your stress or anxiety or even ask for help.

With motherhood comes the stressors and anxiety triggers like time demands, finances, protective instincts, alone time, and doubting self.

How to Ease Stress and Anxiety

It is normal to undergo stress and anxiety in life, but it is vital to ask for help or implement strategies to ease it before it gets out of control.

This applies to the mother or father as they navigate parenting or the male or female adult as they make healthy choices in their everyday lives.

Practice mindfulness. This is achieved by being present, deep breathing, being less self-critical, knowing your past mistakes and forgiving yourself.

Make self-care a priority. Do things you love at least once every week. Spending time with self will teach you what’s important to you.

Know when to take a break. It is also important not to become overburdened and burnt out from your job or your tasks as a mother.

Self-care prioritizes saying no when it is necessary and choosing you by setting essential boundaries.

Caring for self is about loving yourself wholeheartedly without self-critical thoughts of being less than and unworthy- thinking positive is important.

Speak with a trusted friend /Seek professional help (Licensed Therapist or Psychologist) – Healing happens when you ask for help, embrace it and receive it. Asking for help will encourage true mental wellness and rejuvenation to take on life's undesirable challenges.

Final Thoughts

You are not defined by your moments of stress and anxiety but rather your ability to rise above them and acknowledge your need for assistance through them.

Sources

1. McLean, C.P., Asnaani, A., Litz, B.T., Hofmann, S.G. (2011). Gender Differences in Anxiety Disorders: Prevalence, Course of Illness, Comorbidity, and Burden of Illness. Journal of Psychiatric Research; 45(8): 1027-1035.

2. National Institute of Mental Health. (2015). What are Anxiety Disorders?

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