A person’s mental health hugely impacts the overall quality of his or her life, according to the World Health Organization Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio-economic development.
Like every other person, Atheist experience various forms of life challenges like
– Adverse childhood experiences
– Loss of Job or Livelihood
– Stigma from leaving a religious belief or being and LGBTQs
– Past or present trauma
– Present or past experiences of being abused or assaulted
– Sudden loss of family or a dear friend etc.
These experiences can cause various forms of mental stress signs can range from
– Appetite changes
– Disruption of sleep
– Engaging in risky behaviours (self-harm, sexual acting out, disordered eating other compulsive behaviours)
– Mental distress (worrisome thoughts, tension, insecurity)
– Substance abuse
– Suicidal thoughts
How can an atheist have good mental health despite difficult conditions
This plane of existence can be very brutal at times for different persons with this uncertainty having good mental health can prove challenging but here are some tips that may help atheists and free thinkers maintain good mental health.
· Be compassionate toward yourself and others doing this creates a sense of purpose and meaning
· Stick with your usual routine this could be reading a book feeding the cat or watching TV shows
· Take care of your physical health cause it is as important as your mental health, take a walk or run in the park, eat healthy foods
· Take a break from social media and the news because they can be very toxic and can hinder your healing process
· Connect with family and friends who truly care about your well-being and mental stability
· Reach out for help if you need it by talking to one of SUN counsellor and well-being experts
