Vibeke Koushede, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Copenhagen, is launching “ABC for Mental Health,” a book based on research connected to factors influencing physical health and offering solutions for flagging well-being. Her insights stem from both personal experience and her professional expertise as a professor of mental health promotion.
Koushede emphasizes the importance of proactive measures for maintaining mental health, suggesting three key actions: doing something active, doing something together, and doing something meaningful. These principles, she argues, are as fundamental to mental well-being as diet and exercise are to physical health. She highlights that health is not merely the absence of disease but encompasses social and mental aspects.
Koushede’s understanding of adversity is rooted in her own experience. She was in an abusive relationship in her early 20s, a period she describes as profoundly difficult but ultimately formative. The experience taught her how to handle resistance and deeply influenced her professional interest in mental health.
She escaped the relationship and returned to Denmark with her oldest son. Koushede underscores the crucial role of social connections in mental health, stating, “People need people.” She explains that our ability to cope with life’s challenges is significantly influenced by our surroundings, personal history, and belief in our own capabilities.
Looking back, she acknowledges the difficulty in explaining the situation, recalling the shame she felt and the common question: “Why didn’t you just leave?” She explains that abusive relationships are complex, often involving moments of love and remorse, making it hard to see the situation clearly. She advises that reaching out to trusted individuals is essential during times of crisis and that nurturing social relationships is vital for mental well-being.
Acknowledging that not everyone has strong social networks, Koushede encourages people to be open and inclusive. She also notes that simple activities like walking, particularly in nature, can positively impact mental health. A stable upbringing and positive self-esteem are also critical for developing effective coping strategies.
Koushede recognizes that changing behavior is challenging, so she suggests focusing on micro-actions – small, achievable goals that can create a positive difference. Examples include going for a walk, smiling at others, or helping someone in need.