Physical wellbeing and mental wellbeing are two sides of the same coin. In Bangladesh, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases is on the rise, largely due to unhealthy lifestyle choices and unaddressed mental health issues. The youth, in particular, are facing a crisis, with suicide being identified as the leading cause of death among teenagers in a recent study.
To address these challenges effectively, a holistic approach is needed. This involves integrating considerations across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and employment. Creating environments that support wellbeing at the national, community, family, and individual levels is essential. This includes implementing policies like the Clean Air Act, providing access to healthy food and open spaces, promoting healthy relationships, and offering tools for emotional regulation and trauma support.
Healing and wellbeing cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires a supportive community that connects wellness seekers with wellness promoters. By creating an ecosystem that fosters healthy lifestyles within communities, individuals can support each other on their wellness journey.
Culturally, there is a need to promote preventative healthcare by integrating traditional practices like yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda with modern psychological insights such as talk therapy and mindfulness. This holistic approach to health focuses on addressing the root causes of illness rather than just treating symptoms with pharmaceuticals.
The benefits of mindfulness practices and yoga are well-documented, with improvements in immunity, mood, mental health, blood pressure, and overall quality of life. These practices, once ingrained in our cultural heritage, are now experiencing a resurgence globally. It is crucial for Bangladesh to embrace these practices to ensure the wellbeing of its population.
In the West, mindfulness practices and yoga have become integral parts of school curriculums and healthcare offerings. Empowering youths with knowledge about these practices can help them build healthy habits and self-care routines that will benefit them throughout their lives. Access to this knowledge is a fundamental right, and by promoting good health and wellbeing, we can create a happier, more productive, and peaceful community.
In conclusion, the link between physical and mental wellbeing is undeniable. By adopting a systems approach that integrates various sectors and promotes holistic health practices, we can empower our youth to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. It is time to prioritize the wellbeing of our youth and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
