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Society today believes that It's okay NOT to be Okay.

If I were to give my two cents on this, I would agree, however, one should understand first the importance of mental health in order to really understand that being NOT okay is, still, okay.

So what is Mental Health? Allow me to break it down below.

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being that often gets overlooked. While physical health is generally given a lot of attention, mental health is often seen as taboo, and people are hesitant to discuss their mental struggles openly. However, mental health is just as crucial as physical health and plays a vital role in determining a person's quality of life.

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we feel, think, and behave in our day-to-day lives. Mental health problems can range from mild anxiety to severe depression and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Therefore, it's crucial to prioritize mental health and take proactive steps to maintain and improve it.

Here are some reasons why mental health is so important:

Mental health affects physical health:

Mental and physical health are interconnected. If you are struggling with mental health issues, it can have an adverse impact on your physical health. For instance, depression and anxiety can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Stress can also lead to headaches, high blood pressure, and other physical health problems. Therefore, taking care of your mental health can help you maintain good physical health.

Mental health impacts productivity:

Mental health issues can have a significant impact on a person's productivity. People with depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems may struggle to focus on tasks, complete them on time, or make decisions. This can affect their work performance and reduce their productivity. Therefore, prioritizing mental health can help improve your focus, decision-making abilities, and overall productivity.

Mental health affects relationships:

Mental health issues can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. People with mental health problems may struggle to communicate effectively or withdraw from social interactions. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and isolation. Prioritizing mental health can help improve communication skills, reduce conflicts, and strengthen relationships.

Mental health impacts overall well-being:

Mental health problems can significantly impact a person's overall well-being. People with mental health issues may struggle with low self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness, and reduced quality of life. Taking care of your mental health can help you feel more confident, improve your self-esteem, and lead to a more fulfilling life.

In conclusion, mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being that should be given the same attention as physical health. Taking care of your mental health can improve your physical health, productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize mental health by seeking help when needed, practicing self-care, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being. Remember, it's okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

Hope this could help! Ciao!

#MentalHealthAwareness

I was contemplating going abroad for greener pastures but somehow I am hesitant about the fact that I will be leaving my 3 kids, most especially my youngest daughter who was diagnosed with ASD. Nevertheless, I am still researching what to do if given such opportunities. So I started with securing a visa and these are what I have digested.

Getting a working visa approved is a crucial step toward achieving your career goals in a foreign country. The process of obtaining a working visa can be complex and time-consuming, but with the right preparation and approach, it can be a smooth and successful process.

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of getting a working visa approved:

1. Start preparing early

It is crucial to start preparing your visa application as soon as you know that you need one. Visa applications can take several weeks or even months to process, so it is essential to leave enough time for the process. But some friends who were already there say that it took them a year or two to process their visa, especially for those who took their family with them.

2. Research visa requirements

Different countries have different visa requirements, and it is important to be familiar with them before you apply. Check the government website of the country where you want to work and research the types of visas available and the documentation required. I have actually tried the Canada website trying to inquire about their process and believe me it's quite tasking and, well, a little bit complicated.

3. Get an offer of employment

Having a job offer from a reputable employer can vastly improve your chances of getting your working visa approved. Ensure that your potential employer provides you with the necessary documents such as a signed contract or a letter of invitation. Indeed, this was, according to many, the fastest way to get a working visa. One must have an employer!

4. Gather all necessary documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents in order to avoid any delays or rejections. You will typically be required to provide proof of employment or business opportunity, a valid passport, and often a police clearance certificate. To be sure, secure all the documents you deemed necessary for your application even if it is not stipulated like the NBI clearance, birth certificates, and the like.

5. Follow the application instructions

Make sure that you follow the instructions for the visa application process carefully. Fill out all the forms accurately, attach all necessary documents, and pay the required fees. Double-check before forwarding your papers to your employer or its authorized agency.

6. Be prepared for an interview

Some countries may require an interview as part of the visa application process. If you are required to attend an interview, prepare carefully by researching common questions and practicing your responses. Youtube is the key!

7. Seek expert help

If you are unsure of the application process or have any questions, it is recommended to seek expert help. Consider consulting an immigration lawyer, visa consultant, or embassy representative.

In conclusion, obtaining a working visa can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation and attention to detail, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips and being patient, you can increase your chances of getting your visa application approved and fulfilling your career ambitions overseas.

So, for all of us who are still contemplating, let's cross our fingers! For me, I believe that when the time is right, God will make it happen! Amen.

My teaching experience both in the Secondary and Tertiary levels equipped me with the skills to handle distinct characters. I've been teaching for almost 20 years already and yet I reached to a point where I want to have more for what I have rendered.

I want a greener pasture and I doubt if I could achieve it here in my beloved Philippines. 

But then I have so many apprehensions and what-ifs.

What if I won't be successful with my endeavor abroad?

What if I cannot handle much of the pressure that I will be dealing with?

What if I cannot achieve my ultimate goal which is to bring my family with me?

Somehow, my mind kept telling me that I will never know unless I will give it a try, however, my heart told me to stay because my kids are still kids who need me the most.

But when I think about the future, a brighter future- I doubt if I could have it here. I am getting older and I could not lose this opportunity. But then again, the sight of my kids made me think otherwise.

Nevertheless, I am still taking the initial steps to secure my passport. Who knows, If the time is right, my God will make it happen.

Fingers crossed.