Mastering his thoughts for better mental health

Local youth Neo Shale shares his views on how important it has been for him to master self-awareness to improve his mental health.

Here is what he had to say:

Mental health is the foundation of life whether it be physical, educational, or social.

I have witnessed individuals with the biggest bank accounts and individuals in the best physical shape lose it all because their mental health was in disarray. The ability to carry on pushing forward when things get tough or the ability to achieve consistency is dependent on the internal voice you sit with every day, the voice that knows you better than anyone else.

However, this voice does not always have your best interests at heart, as it is influenced by external factors such as friends, family, and strangers on the internet. In difficult situations, this voice may tell you that you are alright.

That is why I find it important to master self-awareness and work towards improved mental health by implementing coping mechanisms. For me, football under Growing Champions proved to be one of my coping methods. It taught me the strength of unity and the beauty of being a part of a collective that works on growing not just its members but those around them.

I am determined to contribute towards change in our community. To grow the structures that provide healthy mental development and coping mechanisms. Part of this is to hold ourselves accountable for our self-care, and management of stress, setbacks, and frustrations so we build rather than break down ourselves and others.

I would like to give an honourable mention to my Growing Champions FC tribe who stand by me every day. We choose to serve, we choose to build each other and we choose to grow mental toughness.