According to experts, the key to managing excessive stress is recognising and feeling your emotions and seeking help when needed.
Ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10, Melissa Day, Talking Therapist and Suicide First Aid Tutor at Niroshini 360, has listed four steps to take if you feel that you are on the verge of an “emotional or mental breakdown”.
Embrace the breakdown
If you feel that you are heading towards a breakdown, it is important that you allow yourself to feel your emotions and rest.
“Engaging in efforts to maintain functionality during a breakdown, can prove to be highly detrimental,” Melissa warns. “Instead, it is recommended to surrender to the breakdown, allowing it to run its course. The most effective approach is to navigate through the breakdown.”
Regard emotions as invaluable allies
It is important to know that we feel our emotions for a reason.
“It is important to recognise that sensations, emotions and feelings are not unfounded; they are indicative of a stress crisis,” the expert advises. “Regard emotions as invaluable allies. When one encounters distress, emotions serve as an internal compass and guide, signaling that something is amiss.”
Seek help
Seeking help as well as identifying and addressing your worries and fears is vital.
“The occurrence of a breakdown serves as an indication, that a lifestyle modification is necessary,” Melissa says. “It is crucial to understand the underlying cause of a breakdown, to acknowledge that it is not occurring without reason. Avoid the misconception of simply recovering from the breakdown and resuming normal routine.”
The expert adds, “Assistance from trusted confidants or professionals may prove beneficial in this regard.”
Stabilise your mood and sleep
Getting enough rest and sunlight is essential for stabilising your mood.
“It is recommended that individuals allocate a daily period of 20 minutes, to expose themselves to sunlight,” Melissa explains. “One way to enhance the circadian rhythm and promote restful sleep, is through exposure to morning sunlight. Vitamin D is an exceptional mood stabiliser; arguably the most essential nutrient required, to maintain a sufficient supply in the body for the production of effective hormones.”
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