Sound mental health at every stage

Sound mental health at every stage

 

Every stage of your life comes with different challenges to your mental well-being. What worried you in your teen years, will not worry you in your 30s. What gave you sleepless nights in your 20s will not stress you in your 40s. As they say, new levels, new problems. 

Nevertheless, at every stage, you require good mental health. You are a work in progress, experiencing growth in every aspect of your life. Your health state is vital because you are to remain productive, and energetic and make crucial life decisions.

To support good physical and mental health at every stage; ensure you are eating right, being physically active, getting enough sleep, and having a healthy relationship. In case you feel that you are not doing well mentally, consider talking to someone or seeking professional help.

In your 20S’

Although we have been recording an increase of teenagers diagnosed with mental health conditions, researchers say most mental health conditions usually begin from 25 years. They say mental health conditions are common in young people. Recent research shows that 1 in 3 young women between the ages of 18 to 25 reported they had a mental health issue. Unfortunately, some conditions are worse to interfere with their normal activities. Some cannot work, take of themselves, or go to school.

Some of the stressful events in your early 20s are; looking for a job, completing your education, moving out of your parent’s home, and being financially stable. Coping with this situation can be hard for everyone. 

The majority of people with medical conditions are not aware of their status, so they don’t get treated. 

At this stage what you can do to maintain good mental health is to get information about the mental issues. Ensure you know the signs, symptoms, and treatment of mental disorders. The knowledge will help you protect your mental health. 

The other thing you can do is to seek help whenever you sense all is not well. Anytime you feel sad, lonely, desperate, and with suicidal thoughts, speak up. You can talk to someone you trust or talk to a professional counsellor. The earlier a condition is detected, the easier it will be to treat it. 

 The 30s and 40s’

When you cross to the 30s and 40s, you find other issues. Most likely you are dealing with many responsibilities. You are trying to build your career, raise a family, or settle down. This stage can be so overwhelming and stressful. It can affect your mental health. Women in this stage experience changes in their bodies which affects their well-being. Pregnancy causes mood swings, which can interfere with your mental health. Motherhood is also not easy, kids can make mothers lose their cool. Perimenopause causes hormonal that can affect women’s mental health. 

To achieve good mental health, schedule an annual medical checkup. In this stage, you need to keep your doctor close. It is very crucial for every woman. Let the doctor have your medical history, and check how you are and what you desire to achieve. Follow every advice from your doctor and ensure you are doing medical reviews. 

Developing healthy habits can bring significant benefits to your overall health. These habits include; exercising, eating right, sleeping well, and building healthy relationships. 

Even in your old age, you will still need to take good care of your mental health. In 50s, you are experiencing menopause which comes with many body changes. These changes not only affect your physical health but also your mental health. Be prepared in every stage, know what to expect, and deal with the issues according to their nature. 

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Charity Nyambura is an advocate of women's wellness and a voice for gender equality. She graduated from Egerton University with a Degree in Gender and Development studies.

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