Beyond Blood: How Family Shapes Our Mental Wellbeing
Family is an integral part of our lives, providing us with a sense of belonging, love, and
support that is essential for our mental and emotional wellbeing. It is especially true in the
Philippines, where family relationships are highly valued and cherished, and plays an even more
significant role in shaping our lives and influencing our mental health.
From our earliest years, our parents take on the pivotal role of being our primary
caregivers, and their impact on our mental health cannot be overstated. They guide us in
developing our sense of self, instill in us our values and beliefs, and nurture our overall emotional
growth. However, not all children are fortunate enough to grow up in a nurturing and supportive
environment, and this lack can have a lasting impact on their mental health as they progress into
adulthood. For those who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect during their formative
years, the consequences can be particularly devastating.
Nevertheless, families still possess the power to play a crucial role in supporting their loved
ones' mental health. By offering consistent emotional support, families create a safe and secure
environment that fosters mental wellbeing. It is essential to actively listen to our loved ones,
provide them with guidance and advice when needed, and simply be present for them during
times of distress or vulnerability. By giving unwavering emotional support, families can
significantly help each other cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges, thereby
potentially preventing the development of more severe mental health problems.
Furthermore, families can also extend their support beyond emotional nurturing and
provide practical assistance to help maintain good mental health. This can manifest in various
ways, such as lending a hand with household chores to alleviate overwhelming responsibilities,
offering financial assistance to reduce stress related to economic burdens, or assisting in
arranging medical appointments for those seeking professional help. By providing such practical
support, families can help their loved ones manage their daily lives more effectively, reducing
overall stress and anxiety levels, and promoting long-term mental wellbeing.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that not all families are equipped or willing to be
supportive of their loved ones' mental health needs. Some families may perpetuate stigma
surrounding mental illness, lacking understanding of its impact or the importance of seeking
appropriate help. In such cases, individuals may need to seek support from alternative sources,
such as trusted friends, dedicated support groups, or mental health professionals, to ensure they
receive the assistance they require.
As a society, it is imperative that we recognize and appreciate the significant role families
play in maintaining good mental health. We must strive to offer support, resources, and education
to those families who may be struggling to provide adequate mental health care for their loved
ones. Additionally, we must actively work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness,
fostering an environment where families feel comfortable seeking help when they need it the most.
By coming together as a community, we can create a supportive and empathetic society that
prioritizes mental wellbeing for all its members.