One of the few positives of the global pandemic has been the reduction of the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Being deprived of human connection while simultaneously losing the comfort and structure of routine has caused distress to many people who have previously given little to no attention to their mental state. In spite of the increasing acceptance of mental discussions and considerations, the context within which these conversations take place has remained relatively unchanged. Mental health is primarily discussed with regards to illnesses and abnormalities. During the initial stages of lockdowns across the globe, my timeline was filled with articles discussing how to combat anxiety, depression and a plethora of other negative mental states. While addressing these issues is absolutely necessary, and is the springboard for achieving a healthy and productive life, solely framing mental health in the bracket of “if ain’t broke don’t fix it” is far too narrow.
With the lockdown situation alleviating in many parts of the world, I believe that an opportunity exists to capitalise on the momentum that mental health awareness has garnered. Those who have been fortunate enough to exit survival mode and adjust sufficiently to a world plagued by the effects of COVID-19 must be made aware of the fact that mental health, just like physical health, must not only be tended to when problems are glaring. In the same way that after a surgery, rehabilitation is needed to ensure proper healing and to mitigate the chances of the same problem reoccurring, the “optimisation” aspect of mental health must follow the foundational work that lifts someone out of a rut.
This is where, I believe, my role as self-development consultant is differentiated from that of a counsellor. A counsellor works to drag someone out of their present chaos into what many describe as a limbo of normality where one finds themselves questioning what move to make next. As a self-development consultant, I look into my clients’ past as an explanation for where they find themselves in the present. After we work through this, we can then mould the springboard for their ideal future. My role doesn’t end when the chaos ends. If anything, In fact, I believe that the work I do becomes more important once someone has stabilised. Forward motion ensures that one does not lapse into old behaviours and thought patterns.
Here are some signs that your life may need reinvigorating once the novelty of exiting survival mode has worn off:
· You struggle to find joy in and get excited by activities that have always been riveting to you.
· You’re always tired and can never find free time for yourself. You never seem to have the time to do the things you want to do.
· You are prone to making excuses and blaming others for failures and difficulties in your own life.
· You constantly talk up and fantasise about the idea of making “that” change that will give you your ideal life but never seem to pull the trigger.
If any of these signs resonate with you, I want to remind you that you are worthy and deserving of a life filled with joy and happiness. You are not destined to live a subpar and mediocre life. In spite of your challenges and your flaws, you still hold greatness and power within you. You just need to unlock these aspects of your psyche.
If you’re willing to learn, I can show you how.
Feel free to reach out.
Nikki.
