How do you look after your mental health? — Assembly

Students from Canada, India, Indonesia and Pakistan share how they look after their mental health.

In Assembly’s “Around the world” series, girls sound off on the topics that matter to them, from the companies they’re dreaming up to the issues they wished more leaders talked about.

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“I always like to meditate to keep my mind at peace. It's hard to keep your mental health good when we all face many challenges every day. Gender discrimination, comparisons to others and news about violence against women are some of the things that affect my mental health. However, I just try to address these difficulties head on and speak out whenever possible. Acting strong and bold helps me to feel better. I also like to read self-help books and listen to soothing music.”

— Dekshina, 17, India

“I look after my mental health by prioritising healthy eating and exercise, doing things that I love and reaching out for help. Easier said than done, I know, but I find that when I make an effort to get some exercise and eat some leafy greens, I feel a lot better. I also try to find workouts that I love, like dance, yoga and spin classes. On top of all of these tips, I truly believe that reaching out to professionals (like school counsellors or therapists) when things get overwhelming is crucial and can make a huge difference!”

— Alison, 19, Canada

“By focusing on being positive and not overthinking on day-to-day problems which are minor. I avoid negativity on social media and follow several well-reputed activists who cause me to feel empowered. I also find exercising with its endorphin-producing beneficial results helps my mental relaxation.”

— Amal, 17, Pakistan

"Sometimes I feel really stressed about my own life. I have anxiety issues, and when anxiety attacks me I just try to breathe using the belly breath method. The belly breath method is when I stay still in a relaxed position (like laying down or sitting), put my right hand on top of belly, my left on top of chest and close my eyes or focus my gaze on one point. Then I begin to inhale through my nose for one to five counts (it depends on your breath length), filling my belly with air and pushing it forward. When I exhale through my nose I count twice longer than the inhalation, bringing my belly closer to the back and spine. Belly breathing has really helped me to calm down. I hope that it can be helpful for other young women to control their anxiety."

— Khansa, 16, Indonesia