Happy Independence Day to all Nigerians may we continue to build a future defined by peace, progress, and unity.

We also welcome October, a month of fresh goals and new beginnings. But beyond the celebrations, this month holds a special significance: it is Mental Health Awareness Month.

This year, World Mental Health Day (October 10th) focuses on "Access to Services—Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies." This theme highlights the critical need to support our mental well-being, especially during times of crisis and uncertainty.

To truly honour this theme, we need to start by understanding our own needs. So, let’s ask a personal question...

What Is Your Mental Health’s Love Language?

We all know the five love languages: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. They describe how we best receive love from others.

But what if we applied this concept to our own minds? How does your mental health tell you it needs care, attention, and love?

Understanding this can be the key to better self-care, resilience, and managing the inevitable challenges of life.

1. Words of Affirmation

If your mental health speaks this language, it thrives on kind, internal dialogue.

Its Need: To hear positive self-talk, encouragement, and validation.

The Self-Care: Instead of spiraling into criticism when you make a mistake, you interrupt the thought: “I am trying my best,” or “I made an error, and that’s okay. I will learn from it.” Your self-care looks like journaling your wins and writing out positive future statements.

2. Acts of Service

For this mental health language, actions speak louder than internal pep talks. It needs you to do the hard, practical things that ease its burden.

Its Need: For you to relieve unnecessary stress and chaos.

The Self-Care: It’s not glamorous, but it is powerful: folding the laundry, paying that overdue bill, finally scheduling the doctor's appointment, or spending 15 minutes tidying your workspace. You are serving your future self by creating a calmer environment.

3. Receiving Gifts

This doesn't mean expensive shopping. This love language is about tangible, sensory symbols of thoughtfulness.

Its Need: A physical, visible reminder that you care.

The Self-Care: Buying the good tea, lighting a favorite scented candle, reading a new book just for fun, or putting on your softest, most comfortable clothing. These small, thoughtful "gifts" signal to your brain that it is worthy of comfort and joy.

4. Quality Time

If this is your mental health's language, it requires undivided, focused attention to recharge.

Its Need: Unplugged, one-on-one time with yourself, free from distractions.

The Self-Care: Taking a 30-minute walk without your phone, engaging in a hobby where you lose track of time, or simply sitting in silence to check in with your emotions. This is about prioritizing presence over productivity.

5. Physical Touch

Your body and mind are deeply connected. This language feels most soothed through safe, physical connection.

Its Need: Non-verbal comfort and grounding.

The Self-Care: A long, warm bath, a gentle stretching session, a long hug from a loved one, or simply curling up under a heavy blanket. The physical sensation of comfort helps regulate your nervous system and provides a sense of security.

This October: Prioritize Your Access

The global theme of "Access to Services" is a powerful reminder that mental health care is a human right. As we celebrate our nation and the spirit of a new month, let's make a commitment to ourselves:

To prioritize access to our own needs.

Take a moment today to identify your mental health's primary love language. Then, spend the rest of October speaking it fluently.

Happy Independence Day, Nigeria, and may you have a mindful, joyous, and healthy October!

At Amani Health, we offer Online therapy for adults, teens, and children

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