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Suicide as a result of depression kills a large number every year, a high percentage of whom are young adults and teenagers. What can be done?
As an ex-professor at an engineering college with nearly two decades of connection with young students, my heart is aching as I write this. Today the rate of suicide is more than ever in India.
In recent times, deaths due to suicide have become alarming – the main thing to be noted is that most of those who attempt suicide are young students in their late teens or young adults.
I am much worried about all of this, that I often see in my students, and I would like to use my experience as a teacher to help them.
Here are 10 simple ways to improve mental health and to avoid the kind of depression that makes you think of suicide.
You should talk to anyone you trust. Believe that you’re not alone; many of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. Feeling suicidal is not a character defect, and it doesn’t mean that you are crazy, or weak, or flawed. Have assurance that with time and support, you can overcome your problems and the pain and suicidal feelings too.
Researchers say nature could be the key to big mind-body benefits. Enjoy Nature. It may make to know that all your problems are smaller compared to the mightiest of Nature. Do Gardening. Walk along the beach. Sit in the cool breeze. Certainly Nature would heal all your wounds.
Most of us love music. Music certainly calms our mind and makes us happy. Music reduces stress and anxiety. Music decreases pain. You can either listen to music or compose yourself. Dance with music. Paint to the music.
Science has shown that your mind and body benefits from taking time out of your daily life to slow down and meditate.
The benefits of meditation and Yoga are endless. It leads to a deeper level of relaxation. Reduces anxiety attacks. Join in Yoga classes. Meditate for 20 minutes daily.
Kindness makes us happier. Kindness makes for better relationships. Kindness help to fewer negative emotions and better coping mentality. Perform some Random Acts of Kindness ( RAK ) everyday.
Affirmation or Self Talk is the shifting of thoughts resulting from negative, dirty, and harsh experiences or ideas to a more positive note. They are an expression or idea that is repeated, used to impress the subconscious with a thought that motivates you, remind you of your talents and provide the confidence you need to accomplish goals.
Regular use of positive affirmations can help change your attitude, behaviors and habits.
Writing a journal is like writing letters or diaries as in ancient tradition. The benefits of writing are
Above all, trust in GOD. It gives you faith, confidence. Trusting in GOD will guide you in correct path when you are in trouble.
Family is great moral support to anybody. Get guidance and help from your family members. Play, dance, and eat together.
Pets are good source of energy and love to all. Bath your do. Play with your cats. Enjoy walk with your pets. It heals your stressed mind and makes you calm.
If you are depressed, get proper consultation with a psychiatrist. Try to follow the treatment and medication as prescribed. Have patience.
If you or anyone you know is feeling suicidal, here are some of the helplines available in India. Please call.
Aasra, Mumbai: 022-27546669
Sneha, Chennai: 044-2464 0050
Lifeline, Kolkata: 033-2474 4704
Sahai, Bangalore: 080–25497777
Roshni, Hyderabad: 040-66202000, 040-66202001
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Published here earlier.
Image source: wikicommons
I am V. Vasantha. Later Vasantha Vallinaygam during my college days and before marriage. Now
The person may have lost perspective on how big a problem actually is. They will find it hard to hear that what is insurmountable for them is actually not such a big deal. It is unhelpful to say “What’s your problem? You’re upset about nothing.” Instead try “You seem to be finding this issue a big deal at the moment. Can we solve it together?” Many people suffering with depression feel unworthy of being loved. You need to reassure them frequently. For example “I love you for who you are. I am not going to leave you.” While it is important to accept the person in the state they are in, don’t let it totally consume your life. Otherwise, you’ll fall in a heap and won’t be much help to anyone. You need to take care of yourself. “I am committed to you and to helping you. But I also need to eat / shop / go out for coffee / ring a friend / see a movie to recharge my batteries. Then I can look after you better.”
Thanks for your thought provoking views on the article. Really it’s mind blowing.
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