Pre Val's Day Reality Check For Youths II

We were examining scenarios that could trigger a lack of self worth in us during this season. You can read the previous episode here.

So my question is: Will your life end after the 14th of February? 

I know your answer is NO! GOD FORBID! So, please remind me again; why are you feeling depressed this season? 

Succumbing to external and internal pressures may be unintentional and as a result of trauma or being constantly exposed to pain, ridicule, abuse or hardship, but experience and research  has shown that it is not peculiar to you or a particular group of people. All over the world, people experience stress, anxieties and depression. The problem starts when we feel defeated, get stuck in that dark place, give up and stop striving to appreciate the beautiful gifts of life.

If your depression stems from your past then its time to learn from your mistakes and move on. Give yourself a break because nobody is perfect. Yes, like every other person who has been down that road, you can overcome societal pressure and emotional challenges and become the best version of you. You can start all over on a clean sheet today. 

If you lack self esteem, then focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses. It might be a tough decision, but you are tougher so strive to improve on yourself and in extension your self esteem. You can join a volunteer group, church group or other young people who appreciate your opinion.

 

Stop trying to impress the world or some followers on social media. Stop living in a bubble. Take responsibility, set clear and achievable goals. A fake life puts unnecessary pressure on you. Organize your life by planning or working on a project that gives you joy (no matter how little). It is time to try out that new interest or passion you have been shelving. 

If you are a student, you can celebrate Val's day with friends or classmates at this stage. Do not feel pressured into buying expensive gifts you cannot afford. Spend less time on social media, sort out your career path and quit bad habits and gangs. Stick to the plan of making yourself a better person and develop your innate potentials.

For those who are emotionally battered, take it one day at a time. You are encouraged to get over that feeling of being worthless, forgotten and telling yourself your happiness depends on your partner. Stop accepting what they think about you and stop wishing you were as beautiful as that celebrity you have been trolling on IG. Look inwards and you will discover that feeling less about yourself has not decreased your attractiveness. Tell yourself and believe that you are unique, smart, lovable, organized and beautifully made (No one be like you; in the voice of P-square). 

Whatever your category, be reminded that February 14, will surely pass and life will continue. Therefore, I encourage you to enjoy the genuine love being shared around you. But you can only do this when you have learned to truly love yourself and who you are.  As you embrace your inner self and God given abilities, do not forget that being financially unstable now does not mean your future is going to be bleak and being single is not a curse from your village people. 

Reality check, you will have every day of your life to celebrate love so, be happy today, enjoy the journey of life and thank God for giving you another day to take the bold step of making a difference in your life today and some day your  community.

Finally, it is okay to be moody sometimes and down, we are human after all. However, if you are among the group that suffers from extreme stress, depression and mental health challenges triggered by this season or some other challenges in your life that reminds you of your lapses and you can feel the stress mounting each day, then you might need to see a professional in your local health center. It might take some time, but with dedication, professional care and love from the people who mean so much to you, you will surely overcome.

Nikky loves you.