In my last article, I had shared some observations that highlight how one can learn about the social issues a nation has in it by observing the behavior of people in public spaces.
The reason why I emphasize on the quality of public spaces and healthy development of individuals is because that day to day interactions with an environment and people affects the mental health of individuals more than we can imagine. These environmental impacts on mental health affects human behaviors as well as their physical health and how they live their life overall. Let me share some of my analysis on this as well:
(Let's build upon the previous article)
The intolerance and impatience that we see around us on daily basis, the constant rush, the desire to reach before the other, the attempt to not wait at all, the unhealthy competition - it is all due to some incident that one faced and learnt that we can't trust the other person, that we have to make our way to success even if we have to pull others down, or leave others behind and not wait for them to reach as well. And yes not only that, it's societal pressure as well that forces one to care for himself and live to survive in this world. This has created a society that lives on surviving and not thriving mentality, unfortunately.
People don't respect other if they don't respect themselves, it is as simple as that. Period. Individuals who have self respect carries themselves in a manner that is not only safe for themselves but for others as well. They make choices that are good for them and people around them. They respect the other creations of Allah as well. They have healthy self image and thus choose good quality things for themselves. Also, lives a lifestyle that's good for their well being. Can we relate to this? Can majority of us relate to this? What does our public spaces and daily interactions in the spaces show us?
The gender discrimination, inequality and injustice also dictates what do we think about the status of man and woman in society. And let me assure you that it is far from what Allah has created man and woman to be. That's the reason that the injustice and inequality is being prevailed and hence there is complete imbalance. The equality and justice in a Muslim country shall be decided by Islamic Law and teachings according to current scenarios, not by what our inner desires are. Just felt like highlighting it and not going into debate of it.
I believe once we all recognize our self worth and status in eyes of Allah as a human being, and realize the responsibility of being accountable to him, we will start taking steps towards a better future, a better version of ourselves, and better lifestyles and culture as well. It all starts with inner beliefs, thoughts and personal attitude and behavior ultimately.
When we will realize that we all are shepherds and responsible and answerable of our flock under our surveillance (i am not saying it's a hadees) only then we might start taking responsibility of our actions. Only then we may start observing and reflecting on our thought patterns and start taking care of children around us and those who are vulnerable and are in need of our help. Only then we may take decisions that a responsible citizen might take and act like and a good community member will showcase as well. Not for applause but for approval from his/her Rabb (Allah Almighty).
Quiet time, meditation, connecting to higher power, moments of reflection have proven to be highly important aspects for mental health and physical health and not only that it is important for a Muslim to practice it for spiritual health as well. So yeah, are we creating opportunities for this for our citizens and community members?
For tolerance and acceptance for all kinds pf people, one needs to interact and learn from each other about their backgrounds, their conditions, their dreams and aspirations and build trust with each other and live harmoniously together. This social connection is vital ingredient for healthy development of an individual and particularly being highlighted for mental health benefits across the world. So are we implementing that and creating opportunities for that or not?
Here are few points that I have discussed and highlighted that I have really been reflecting upon as mental health advocate and public space activist and I believe that if we start from inward to outward and this kind of bottom up approach we may succeed in a healthy way InshaAllah.
Let's focus on humans more than on money and advancing technology if it's going to cause havoc in long term. The social crisis and mental health crisis is biggest dilemma of this time and must be worked and focused upon. I hope we all will pay attention to it and strive towards making things better. InshaAllah.
Share your feedback! I am listening!
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