These days we hear/talk about “flatten the curve of economic distress” or “flatten the much-talked COVID-19 curve” but what about “flatten the emotional curve”?

Why this topic?

I choose this topic considering the current lockdown situation across the globe and its impact on our mental health. Emotions have always been a priority in my life especially being grown up in the war-torn disputed land Kashmir and my personal experiences. As a kid, the sound of bullets and bombs, curfew, running for our lives in the fields at night, shortage of essential services, no internet, schools shut down and much more is an enduring testament that now as an adult I do understand the importance of mental health. I know few things about how to handle the times of angst, ambiguity, fear or any other ugly emotions associated.

Difference between mental health and mental illness?

Mental health is comprised of your social, psychological and emotional state and don’t confuse it with mental illness which is a disorder that occurs in the brain, like depression or bipolar disorder. Mental health affects every aspect of your life because it impairs how you feel, think and eventually act.

Take care of your mental health and take control!

The Illusion of happiness.

How many of us have thought, if I owned that thing, I’ll be happier or if I earn this much, I’ll be happier? We tend to confuse happiness with material things, but the truth is wealth, economic success and possessions are not the sole items responsible for our happiness.

It’s time for the shift in the mindset – to teach ourselves to stop slogging along and find joy in them!

I am a strong believer in “Whatever(good or bad) happens to you, happens for a reason, the reason might not be visible to you instantly but it’s always there and will be slowly revealed to you in the most beautiful way.” And imagine if you did spend all that time in worry, what did you miss?? most valuable asset ………. TIME

Lessons from various cultural perspectives.

Different cultures can offer a valuable alternative perspective on what happiness is, the Japanese “Ikigai” concept (Wonderful Japanese concept that means “a reason for being.” It’s made from two Japanese words iki meaning “life” and kai, meaning “effect, result, worth or benefit.), the Danish concept of “hygge” (Cannot be translated to one single word but encompasses a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being through enjoying the simple things in life) and my personal to go concept of faith (whatever faith you practice).

I understand all the concepts are unique to every individual and “happiness” is quite elusive but if we spend time to understand what truly matters in our life, it would be a blessing. Develop the mindset that helps us see the bright side when things don’t feel right and stop holding your breath until it’s bloom again as it will help you find joy and hope wherever you are as happiness is a choice.

Note: I am not undermining the fact to flatten the economic/COVID curve but also pay attention to your emotions as they always stay with you irrespective of external factors and will eventually help to take care of the rest.

Flatten the emotional curve – Part II ………. Coming Soon