JENELLE FRASER

Dear AFETT,

I have been struggling with "putting in the work" versus "putting myself first."

I say that I am a priority, but in reality, I put tasks before myself.

Recently, I started a new position at work that I have been longing for, however, I notice my mental health is being affected by the workload, as my new expectations and responsibilities are significantly more than they used to be. It feels like too much sometimes.

How can I balance this new role and truly be mentally okay?

Dear reader,

Your concern resonates deeply. Far too many times, I too have experienced mental breakdowns amid an important project, task or shortly after taking on a new role.

I have felt constrained to keep my composure, maintain my professionalism and just get the work done.

I assure you, there is no reward for "sucking it up," swallowing tears or suffering in silence.

The psychological effects may hit late, but it always hits heavy.

We are taught to approach big responsibilities with the mentality that "heavy is the head that wears the crown" and that "with great power comes great responsibility" – but we were not taught how to mentally, emotionally and/or psychologically cope with increased responsibilities and expectations.

As a goal-oriented professional, you will feel inclined to keep pushing, no matter how you feel.

Notwithstanding the fervent desire to get the job done, you ought to truly consider the deep-rooted, far-reaching mental health impacts.

How many times have you been on the verge of tears, and when your phone rings, you answer it with joy in your voice?

How many times have you felt as if your world is falling apart, and you continue to show up with a radiant smile?

Believe me, it's detrimental.

Your concern is timely as the Mental Health Foundation, UK, recognises mental health awareness in the month of May.

[caption id="attachment_1155155" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jenelle Fraser, AFETT's director of research and public advocacy -[/caption]

Here are a few tips that I have implemented which may help you to get through tough days and balance your new role and responsibilities, all while prioritising yourself.

Slow down

Slowing down is medicine.

I made a promise to myself to start the year with ease, and truthfully, it is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Not only did it set a tone for the year, but it also was an avenue for me to check myself when life becomes overwhelming.

Slow living doesn’t necessarily mean waking up in the way that influencers portray it to be on TikTok and Instagram.

It means taking deep breaths in and breathing out slowly when you start to feel overwhelmed.

It means taking time to watch the clouds form, to look at the sunset or to listen to the beautiful melody of birds chirping.

It means spending quality time with your children, your husband or catching up with an old friend and being completely present, without checking your emails, calendar or the time.

Slow living can simply be sitting at home doing ab