Topic, meaning and tips for reducing stress

World Mental Health Day 2024: Poor time management can lead to overwhelming stress

World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10 every year to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental health. It was first celebrated in 1992 as an initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), a global organization dedicated to promoting mental health worldwide. Over the years, the day has grown in importance, with more countries and organizations becoming involved in campaigns to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Theme

The theme of this year's World Mental Health Day is “Mental Health in the Workplace”. Working with its partners, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the critical connection between mental health and the workplace. Safe, supportive work environments play a protective role in maintaining mental well-being. However, unhealthy conditions such as stigma, discrimination, harassment and poor working conditions can pose serious threats to mental health. These challenges can negatively impact overall quality of life, work participation and productivity.

Meaning

The importance of World Mental Health Day lies in its mission to make mental health a global priority. The day serves as a platform to encourage open conversations about mental health and promote mental wellness initiatives. Each year a theme is selected that reflects a specific aspect of mental health, from raising awareness of mental illness to highlighting the importance of access to mental health care. Compliance plays a critical role in reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help when they need it.

Tips for reducing stress

1. Mindfulness meditation means focusing on the present moment without judgment. It helps reduce anxiety and stress by allowing the individual to disengage from racing thoughts and emotions. Spending even 10 minutes a day on mindfulness can calm the mind and improve overall emotional well-being.
2. Physical activity is a natural stress reliever. When you exercise, endorphins are released, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood enhancers. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga or high-intensity training, regular exercise helps reduce stress levels and increase mental clarity.
3. Poor sleep can increase stress and make it difficult to cope with daily challenges. Creating a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring you get 7 to 9 hours of sleep, and practicing good sleep hygiene can significantly reduce stress and improve mood.
4. High levels of caffeine and sugar can increase stress hormones and cause nervousness or mood swings. Reducing your intake of these stimulants can help maintain a more stable mood and reduce physiological symptoms of stress.
5. Social support is crucial when dealing with stress. Whether you talk to a friend, spend time with family, or seek the support of a counselor, connecting with others can provide emotional comfort, perspective, and a sense of belonging.
6. Deep breathing can activate the body's relaxation response, lower heart rate and reduce stress levels. Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing or box breathing involve slow, deep breaths that help provide a sense of calm and can be practiced whenever stress levels rise.
7. Poor time management can lead to overwhelming stress, especially when you feel like you're behind on tasks. Organizing your day by prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, and breaking them down into smaller steps will help you manage stress more effectively.

Each of these tips offers practical ways to manage stress and improve mental well-being. When implemented regularly, they can lead to a more balanced and less stressful lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. For more information, always consult a specialist or your own doctor. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.