Holistic mental health is about nurturing every aspect of your well-being—mind, body, and spirit. In an intimate setting, surrounded by women from all walks of life, Dr. Koinange—renowned retired combat veteran and psychiatric nurse practitioner—shared her wisdom on the significance of holistic mental health, with a particular emphasis on mental well-being.
In a moment filled with empathy, Dr. Koinange reassured the audience, “There is no challenge too great for you to overcome. In your darkest times, remember you are not alone; you are loved.” Her powerful words resonated deeply, and a hushed silence filled the room as each woman absorbed the comforting truth—we all possess the strength to pull through and overcome. We are never alone in our struggles.
This moment offered much-needed validation, reminding every woman present that no matter the challenges they faced or the uncertainties ahead, they would be okay.
According to Dr. Koinange, achieving holistic mental health involves several key practices:
1. Nurture Social Connections
“No man is an island.” Dr. Koinange reminded us that we all need social connections to truly thrive. Even Jesus surrounded Himself with 12 disciples. Choose your friends wisely—friends who see the best in you, encourage you and offer honesty during your lowest moments. True friends will never use your struggles as “prayer points” for gossip.
2. Set SMART Goals
As women, we often carry the weight of our homes on our shoulders, but Dr. Koinange reminded us, “You need rest, too.” By setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—we can manage our workloads effectively and avoid burnout. We must take inventory of what we can realistically accomplish. Not everything needs to be done at once. By setting realistic goals, you are actively taking control of your well-being. Remember, self-care is your responsibility.
3. Focus On Your Strengths
Instead of dwelling on their weaknesses, Dr. Koinange encouraged the audience to major in their strengths. “Focus on what you do well. Don’t waste time on things you struggle with.” She humorously added, “If you’re not great at math, it’s not the end of the world. For your mental health, embrace what you are good at, like art!”
4. Allow Yourself to Feel or be Vulnerable
Dr. Koinange acknowledged that it’s okay to feel down or even depressed at times. She likened it to when Lazarus died and Jesus Himself wept. “Life can break us, and it’s normal to feel the pain,” she said, encouraging us to allow ourselves to grieve as long as we keep moving forward. She reminded the audience that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
5. Therapy and Medication are Okay
Drawing from her own experience as a retired combat veteran, Dr. Koinange spoke candidly about the trauma she endured and her journey through a dark season of depression. “Yes, I sought help, was prescribed meds, and also spoke to a psychologist.” and now, as I stand here, I am doing okay, she shared. She also pointed out that as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she advocates for therapy, medication, and, most importantly, a lot of Jesus (through prayer). She believes that prayer can provide comfort and strength but should be complemented with professional help when needed.
6. Be Patient
Finally, Dr. Koinange encouraged patience and trust in God’s timing. “Sometimes we want things to happen right now, but your season of bloom will come,” she said. “Don’t rush into creating an ‘Ishmael.’ Your ‘Isaac’ is coming. God’s timing is always perfect.” Healing and growth demand patience and faith, and sometimes, the best outcomes take time to manifest.
How Will You Prioritize Your Holistic Mental Health?
Dr. Koinange’s wisdom and personal testimony remind us that holistic mental health is an ongoing journey that requires nurturing social connections, embracing strengths, seeking help, and trusting in a higher purpose.
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How do you plan to take care of your mental health? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
