Skincare and Mental Health

 

Chances are you, someone you know or are related to has a mental health problem. Just look at the statistics.

Women are more likely than men to have a common mental health problem and are twice as more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Between 4 and 10% of people in the UK will suffer with depression in their lifetime. One adult in six had a common mental disorder. The most common mental health problems experienced during pregnancy and after birth are anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

*All the information was taken from Mentalhealth.org.uk

For women it can be our default state to take care of everyone else before we even consider ourselves. That leaves us feeling exhausted, grumpy, frustrated and resentful. Because we are the wonder women who can do it all. Let's not forget the stigma that prevents us from saying "I'm not coping well and I need help".

The fact is life can slap us silly sometimes. And yes, even Wonder Woman herself would get fed up. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, talk to your GP or consult a professional. The mere act of saying the words out loud can bring much needed relief. Ways to cope and get better might include therapy, medication or simple lifestyle changes. Help is there if you seek it out.

What does the state of our mental health have to do with skincare?

Self-care. Yes, it sounds new age-y. But it is important to take care of ourselves.

Our skincare routine in the morning can prepare us to face the day ahead. Especially when we don't feel like it. It can serve as a way to ground ourselves and focus on ourselves even if it is for a few minutes. Plus taking care of your skin does give you a boost of confidence. Since when is that a bad thing?

Our nighttime skincare routine can serve as a way to unwind, calm our thoughts after a stressful day and to prepare us for a good night's sleep. If you suffer from anxiety (waves hand in the air!) having routines can do a lot to bring down our stress levels.

Now let's address the elephant in the room. Does this make you vain? No. Let us repeat that - no. Majority of us has been conditioned to dismiss anything feminine as frivolous and vain. Taking care of your skin is just as valid as running, crafts or yoga. Anyone trying to tell you different or shame you for it should mind their own business.

Do you enjoy using skincare products? Learning about ingredients? Putting together your routine? Does that calm you?

Self-care is all about taking care of yourself and doing things that bring you joy. Why yes, a great cleanser has been known to give us great joy. What of it? If you found something that helps you cope - embrace it.