By Elizabeth Akua Aponash | Elizabeth is a well-dedicated nursing student from Ghana with a passion for healthcare and helping others. Her ambition is to excel both academically and personally as she prepares for a rewarding career in nursing.

This article aims to contribute to raising awareness of mental health by sharing real-life stories of people (names changed for privacy) who have struggled with their mental health. It is important to remember that mental health issues can affect everyone, are a part of everyday life, and that we can support ourselves and others on their journey and/or seek professional help.

Why is mental health important?

Good Mental health promotes better relationship with people in our lives. Good mental health enables us to work more productively and reach our full potential. Good mental health enables us to make meaningful contributions to our family, to our community and to society.

People struggling with their mental health may be in your family, live next door, teach your children, work in the next cubicle, or sit in the same church pew.

5 ways to improve mental health

• Get closer to nature.
• Get more from your sleep.
• Keep moving.
• Eat healthy food.
• Be kind and help create a better world.

A typical depression disorder

Ben had a sudden feeling of hopelessness, worthlessness, and helplessness after ending his relationship with his friends because he refused to live their bad lifestyle. He had difficulty remembering details and concentrating. His lack of energy and slowed feelings stemmed from the fact that these friends were like family and he had spent most of his time with them.

Ben’s starting a new life on his own, a big change requiring him to accept his new fate. One of his weaknesses is opening up to others and a lack of self-trust. He constantly needs to be reminded that he can do it. His hobbies, running and listening to music, are playing a huge role in his healing. He’s gradually feeling closer to nature, experiencing the fresh air, and meeting new people.

Fred (Ben’s cousin) experienced depression and anxiety disorder after quitting smoking after five years. He lost his appetite; he preferred uncooked food to cooked food, had difficulty sleeping, and lost trust in everyone, including his family, which wanted to help him. His healing process was difficult because he did not want to take instructions from anyone. Showing him love and a sense of belonging was difficult, but it was a step closer to his recovery. He had difficulty remembering his name and loved ones; we constantly had to remind him of who he was and where he came from. Fred healed and became a new person after months of therapy sessions and medication.

A typical anxiety disorder

Nelly has an extreme fear of public speaking, meeting new people, and eating or drinking in public. She is experiencing a huge setback in her career because she is unable to attend job interviews or connect with others. Employers want to employ someone who can communicate with customers so their businesses can grow. Nelly has developed feelings of sadness and hopelessness due to her years of unemployment because of her anxiety disorder. She has reached a point where she needs money to support herself and become independent.

It’s okay to ask for help

Most people experiencing mental health conditions rarely ask for help. This is because they may not have accepted the situation they are facing. Many people disagree or feel ashamed to talk. As we try to promote mental health awareness, we should also look for signs among ourselves. We should always bear in mind that it is not easy for someone to admit they are having challenges.