Let’s Talk Mental Health: Slow the rush for self-improvement

Hey Labelers, with September being #suicidepreventionmonth we wanted to bring some light to mental health. With the global pandemic forcing us to quarantine and get comfortable with our inner selves, there has been more opportunity for self-improvement and growth. While this has been a positive for many it has increased the pressure for others, especially on social media.

Digital Influence

 

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Double Tap if you’re going to say YES…AND from now on! ❤️ Feelings are HARD, often it seems they’re conflicting and this can cause a lot of pain…but embracing the complexity of what it means to be human gives you the space to be your true self and that is very much encouraged by moi! 🥰 @HowMental ~ The Mental Movement ~ is here to help you take care of the most important part of you: Your Mind. 😇 The journey will never be easy, but together we can make sure you get to just the right destination! Follow @HowMental Now and Join The Family! ✨ 📸: @about.the.good.life #mentalhealth #positivethoughts #positivemind #positivelife #dailymotivation #keepmovingforward #personalgrowth #mentalhealthawareness #bpd #helpothers #innerstrength #believeinyou #endthestigma #mentalhealthmatters #bethechangeyouwanttosee #breakthesilence #talkaboutit #stopthestigma #breakthestigma #mentalillnessawareness #anxietyrecovery #mentalhealthrecovery #anxietysupport #generalizedanxietydisorder #anxietyquotes #bipolardisorder #depressionrecovery #createyourownhappiness #selfhelp #selfcareisntselfish

A post shared by How Mental (@howmental) on Sep 2, 2020 at 10:37am PDT

The digital scene has influenced our desire, need, and attention for self-improvement instead of allowing things to happen naturally. Medium talks about how the narrative has been extremely controlled lately and sparked an emphasis on change.

The influence of technology and productivity amongst social media has brought light to the need for self-care during this time. However, this is an aspect that should be worked on all the time, and especially at your own speed/convenience without pressure from the digital scene.

Pressure For Growth

Digital media platforms have influenced the way that we express ourselves and in turn, affected our mental health. Branding, marketing and public relations is heavily inspired by its presence on social media, especially Instagram. Everyone wants to virtually market themselves in today’s society and oftentimes our perception is influenced by the pressure to be the same as others, which comes down to what many know as comparison.

Comparison is common for those on social media and negatively influences mental health, causing many to conform to what is trending and most often something we’re not. Digital Media also leads to Imposter Syndrome, which stems from doubting your accomplishments and talents in the fear of being seen as a “fraud”. This negatively affects many entrepreneurs and their businesses, especially during this time with so many opportunities being discovered every day.

“The quirks that make us human are interpreted, instead, as faults that impede our productivity and progress”. It’s important to understand that sometimes we are exactly where we need to be and if that happens to be in a difficult phase of life, it’s okay. It’s okay to not be okay, especially in the digital scene. We learn from these mental health downfalls and in return, learn to appreciate the highs in our life. Therefore, vulnerable times should be accepted and marketed just as much as growth and self-improvement, especially on social media.

We believe that you should “stop measuring days by degree of productivity and start by experiencing them by degree of presence”, Alan Watts. Some ways you can positively influence and bring awareness to your mental health this month are below.

Tips To Maintain a Positive Relationship With Social Media

 

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Affirmations for those going through uncertain times…how are you doing? What helps you during times of uncertainty?

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Check-in with your emotions as you scroll through your feed
Show grace throughout all your stages of growth and express them as you choose
Stop comparing yourself to others success and happiness
Surround yourself with positive inspiration & people