- By Priyanka Munshi
- Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:38 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In an era of constant hustle, success is often prioritised over well-being. As a result, stress, anxiety, and burnout have become common challenges. Chronic stress can lead to serious health problems such as hypertension, heart disease, obesity, anxiety, and depression. Acknowledging mental health challenges is the first step towards healing. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Neha Aggarwal, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), Gold Medalist and Consultant Psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital, Manesar, Gurugram, shared insights on Prioritising Mental Health: Strategies for Well-being in a Stressed World.
Effective Strategies For Mental Well-Being
1. Establish Healthy Boundaries
Overworking and being constantly available can lead to burnout. Designate specific hours for work, family, and relaxation to create a structured yet flexible routine.
2. Practice Mindfulness And Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation offer a way to pause, breathe, and find balance, cultivating a sense of inner peace in today’s fast-paced world.
3. Stay Physically Active
Engaging in regular physical activities like yoga, walking, dancing, or swimming can significantly improve mental well-being by releasing endorphins—the body’s natural stress relievers.
4. Prioritise Sleep
Adequate duration and quality of sleep are essential for growth, repair, concentration, memory, and emotional regulation.
5. Make Nutrition A Key Focus
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, essential vitamins, magnesium, zinc, iron, and probiotics—along with proper hydration—are important for brain function, neurotransmitter production, and mood stability.
6. Connect With Supportive People
Strong social connections, meaningful conversations, and shared activities provide a sense of belonging and purpose, enhancing overall well-being and resilience.
7. Engage In Hobbies And Creative Activities
Activities like painting, writing, and music promote mindfulness, reduce loneliness, help with emotional expression, and increase self-esteem through self-expression.
8. Limit Digital Overload
Unplug to recharge your mind. Constant digital engagement can drain your energy, so set boundaries, reduce screen time, and take breaks.
9. Seek Professional Help When Needed
Seeking professional help is crucial when mental health struggles interfere with daily life. Psychiatrists assess, diagnose, and provide evidence-based treatments, including medication and therapy, as needed.
In conclusion, Dr. Neha Aggarwal emphasised, "Taking care of mental health should be a daily priority—not an afterthought. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So seek help when needed—it's always available."