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Student Corner

Addressing the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in the 21st Century: A Call to Action for Mental Health Awareness and Self-Care

Written by: Aashish Dahal - 27004, Grade X

Posted on: 13 June, 2024

In the 21st century stress and anxiety are very common and finding a solution to this problem is a necessity. Most prominently people at the age group of 13 to 34 most often face problems related to mental health. Some do it because they compare themselves to others and some because they have family or financial problems. Family problems could be helped by talking with the family members but the other two problems are very hard to fight against. 

 

An important problem is financial problems. 1 in 3 households has financial problems. Many are unemployed or at some places due to over inflation the business is not working. The only way for countering this problem would be to open more business and maintain a stable politic in our country, add more opportunities and attract foreigners to invest in nepal. This would help to make people happier and depression rates would drastically decrease. 


The problem of comparing each other could be helped by not comparing ourselves to others. The lives we see in social media and the so-called ‘perfect life’ we see are not even real so we should not compare ourselves with others, we are not the same. But if someone has already got mental problems like depression and anxiety then therapy and medication can help overcome that but there is an easier and healthier way for this problem: exercising. Beyond physical benefits exercise also provides some mental benefits, offering an accessible means of managing depression and anxiety.  

   

Exercise triggers the release of endorphin, a neurotransmitter known as (feel-good) chemical. These chemicals react with the receptor of the brain and reduce feelings of pain and trigger positive feelings as the effect of morphine. This also makes the mood better and reduces the symptoms of depression. Physical activity also works as an agent for stress relief. Engaging in exercise stimulates the production of dopamine that plays a huge role for controlling mood. Additionally, exercising reduces stress hormones and relaxes the state of mind. Exercise not only helps to build muscles it also helps to build new neurons cells and brain cells in our brain. The study has shown that with the help of exercise new brain cells that are capable of storing huge amounts of memory are also formed. Improving brain health helps to fight against mental disorders as well. With the help of group exercises, group yoga in school and classes helps the student to bond with their friends and fight against the social anxiety.

 

Hence, we should prioritize exercise for the overall physical and mental health benefits. I do not advocate that exercising is the only solution, however, it is a small step on the right way. 

Sources:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax