Is this topic pointing at me? I guess, yes. That’s because I have never set aside time in 2024 to take care of my health as I should. However, I have already planned to focus on my well-being this December, as a lot has happened to my mental health, and if no one cares to tell me, I certainly do.
In the last few months, I have faced a tough time battling various issues at my workplace. Honestly, if I could change my job, I would do it. I’m exhausted from getting dressed each day, uncertain of what challenges the day will bring. I’m emotional by nature, and things impact me easily. Consequently, my mental health has suffered significantly whenever I encounter challenges.
Earlier this year, in February, I took on the role of welfare chairperson for a two-year term. Despite being part of a small group of just eight individuals handling various posts, we had ambitious plans to elevate the welfare of our school. Yet, the reality has been the opposite. There is a constant conspiracy from both management and the other members, making it frustrating to execute our plans. Each time we try to implement something new, it faces disruption, leading to exhaustion rather than appreciation. Hmm!
I’ve made the tough decision to end my involvement in this role by December. I cannot jeopardize my health further, it’s draining me emotionally. I’ve transitioned from being a jovial person to feeling like an introvert. Once, I dressed to express and satisfy myself, but now I find myself not caring about my appearance because going to work each day is unpredictable. This change has bled into my academic life. I often feel lost during class presentations, and it’s so severe that even my home life feels its effects. My children notice my mood swings and my husband is worried, yet we live in a country where securing a new job is incredibly difficult. Do I truly have a choice?
Is this cloth not beautiful?
Last week, during a meeting to discuss the end-of-year attire, a yearly tradition, we chose colors and styles, but when the clothes were distributed, I was shocked to be ridiculed by my colleagues. The first round of criticism completely spoilt my mood, and I have struggled to shake off the negativity since. It’s painful to hear such harsh opinions from those I work with.
So, how do I take care of myself after enduring such a challenging year?
My plan is to embark on a two-week vacation with my husband. I want to concentrate on my mental health and overall well-being away from worries and disappointments. I dream of waking up to a serene environment, enjoying nourishing food, resting, chatting freely, and having so much time to heal. I need to take much time to clear my head and chase away negativities while prioritizing my mental health.
Thus, I've resolved to step back at the end of this year; I won’t push my mental health further because it is a crucial part of my existence. The journey to prioritize my mental health has begun, and I am committed to nurturing myself for a brighter tomorrow. Positivity always and NO to negativity 👌
The images are mine.
This is in response to the #hivelearners writing edition of the week on the subject: FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH