We put a great emphasis on health. It is important to be fit. We talk about obesity, and change our diets to become thinner, and in better shape. When we’re sick, we go to the doctor. Why isn’t there the same urgency when dealing with our mental health? How many mental exercises do you do a day? When was the last time you visited a mental health professional?

Now, I am, by no means, preaching to rush out to get your head shrinked, or whatever. I’d rather not, myself, personally. And I expect others prefer to make that decision on their own as well. I have no training in mental health, but I would like to offer some advice that has been passed on to me, or that I’ve picked up during my 19 years on this planet.

It is important to have balance. We must have a focus in life, but it cannot take over everything. We can’t have too much work, and not enough play, in the same way that constant play will turn our brains to goo. We need work to strengthen the mind.  It’s like, in drama. I’ve been taught mainly to perform in a method format. This means, being completely and totally into character. This kind of intense acting, is emotional and physical, and can easily wear down the mind. Which is why breaks are encouraged. I remember a particular project, which involved a half hour or so of crying. Rehearsals were intense, and important. But equally important was taking breaks to laugh, run around, dance, and feel something other than the intensity of human existence.

Everyone has stress. Not all of it is negative. It is important to isolate negative stress, and either find a way to turn it positive, or to discard it altogether. Positive stress is what causes determination and perseverance.  When you strain a muscle, in the working sense, not in the injured one, it creates friction and heat. Stress provides an excellent source of energy, that can be directed in a constructive manner.

Like I mentioned before, I am not a replacement for a mental health professional. But, I hope you will consider it, and consider the unneeded weight you may be placing on your mind.

Also, I would suggest checking out the website of the Canadian Mental Health Association for more information on mental health, and ways to make sure you are in the right frame of mind to be successful in life.