Now more than ever, we need to develop Mental Strength during tough times. While mental health is an important and popular topic nowadays because it can make you happier, less stressed and emotionally stable, it is quite different from Mental Strength or \u201cGrit\u201d, which is the trait that helps you stay strong, endure hardships, persevere and succeed against all odds\u2014-something that we can all learn from Olympic Champions like Hidilyn Diaz (Congrats, Champ!). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mental Health vs. Mental Strength<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mental Health focuses on emotional, psychological and social well-being. It helps people manage stress and stay sane. Keen awareness of mental issues and immediate response to relieve stress or trauma can help prevent mental breakdown and even save lives of people who are vulnerable to clinical depression, mental illness and suicidal tendencies. This is an important issue that should not be neglected. But at the same time, it should not be abused, used as a \u201cpopularity symbol\u201d and made as an excuse by others because this impacts people who are truly afflicted and in need of help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mental Strength, on the other hand, focuses on being tough amidst adversity. It does not aim to take away tension or stressors. In fact, mental resilience or \u201cgrit\u201d manifests itself when people rise above challenges and powers through tough times. Mental Strength builds character. It is what differentiates whiners vs. winners. A person with Mental Strength prepares for trials and test and works hard without always complaining. It is an essential trait of champions. It helps people achieve things and go beyond ordinary feats. It makes you mentally, emotionally and psychologically strong as a person. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Building Mental Strength<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Mental Strength is not something you are born with. It is developed as you go through life and its challenges. Here are 7 ways to build Mental Resilience:<\/p>\n\n\n\n 1) Self Awareness<\/strong> – Pay attention to your true thoughts, feelings and motivation. It\u2019s okay to experience several emotions but make sure to identify and process them to make good decisions that is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2) Physical Health<\/strong> – A strong body leads to a strong mind. Develop healthy habits that will help you be physically fit which will then lead you to become mentally and emotionally healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3) Focus on Solutions, Not Problems<\/strong> – Dwelling on problems, complaining about issues, whining and self-pitying are just drama that can fester and deplete your energy if you allow it to drag on. Instead, nip things in the bud and focus on finding solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n