MENTAL HEALTH IN THE HEART OF MAUN

At many stages of life—and especially during adolescence—it is common to focus on what is missing: what I cannot do, what I struggle with, what others seem to do better. This constant focus on weaknesses can lead to discouragement, insecurity, and the feeling that moving forward is harder than it really is. Yet growing well does not begin by asking what I lack, but by recognizing what I already have . Every person has strengths, even if they do not always recognize them. Sometimes they are obvious; other times they are quiet and subtle. But they are there—in the way we think, feel, relate to others, and face challenges. But… what are personal strengths, really? Are they only visible talents? How can I use them to move toward my goals? What if I do not feel “good” at anything? These questions are essential for learning to move forward with greater confidence and direction. This post invites reflection on personal strengths and on how to use them consciously to move toward goals, even wh...

There is a stage in life when the future begins to feel close, yet uncertain. Questions arise such as: What do I want to be? Where do I want to go? What if I make a mistake? At that moment, dreaming can feel exciting—or intimidating. For some adolescents, the future is an illusion full of possibilities; for others, it becomes a source of pressure and fear. We are often encouraged to have big dreams, clear goals, and well-defined plans, without being taught how to imagine the future in a healthy and realistic way. As a result, dreaming turns into a burden or something abstract, disconnected from everyday life. But dreaming well is not about escaping reality —it is about learning to look at it with hope and direction. But… what is the difference between a dream and a goal? Is it wrong not to have everything figured out? How can I imagine the future without feeling overwhelmed? What happens when my dreams do not match others’ expectations? These questions are essential for growing with g...

There are moments—especially during adolescence—when a person begins to ask who they really are. Not only what they like or what they are good at, but whether it is okay to be the way they are . In the midst of comparisons, family expectations, peer pressure, and constant messages from social media, being oneself can feel risky. Many adolescents quickly learn that “fitting in” seems safer than being different. They adapt, stay silent, disguise themselves, or hide parts of who they are to avoid being judged. Over time, this strategy may protect them from immediate rejection, but it can also create fear, confusion, and a deep sense of not truly belonging. But… what happens when I stop trying to be like others? Why does personal diversity generate so much fear? Is it possible to be myself and still feel accepted? How can I embrace what makes me unique without shame or guilt? These questions are essential for growing with a stronger and freer sense of identity. This post reflects on person...

There are stages in life—especially during adolescence—when a person may feel confused about who they are, what they feel, and what they expect from themselves. Often, value is sought externally: in friends’ opinions, family approval, or constant comparison with others. However, when self-worth depends only on external validation, it becomes fragile and unstable. In this context, self-awareness is not a luxury or a trend; it is a necessity. Knowing oneself allows a person to understand their reactions, recognize strengths and limits, and begin building a sense of self-worth that does not rely solely on others’ views. Only when someone truly knows themselves can they start to value themselves in a healthy way. But… what does it really mean to know oneself? Does it mean having all the answers? Is it only about focusing on the positive? How are self-awareness and personal values connected? These questions are key to growing with greater clarity and inner coherence. This post explores how ...

There are moments in life when growing seems automatic: we get older, move up a grade, take on new responsibilities. Yet, over time, many people realize that growing does not always mean growing well . One can advance in age and still feel lost, confused, or trapped in decisions that do not truly reflect who they are. We often hear phrases like “you’re already grown,” “you need to mature,” or “that’s part of growing up,” without anyone clearly explaining what it actually means to grow in a healthy way . This lack of clarity leads to confusion: growth is mistaken for pressure, maturity for emotional toughness, and strength for silence. The result is often a life shaped more by external expectations than by inner understanding. But… what does it really mean to grow well? Does it mean never making mistakes? Adapting to everything? Obeying, enduring, or simply surviving each stage of life? How can we tell the difference between personal growth and merely coping with life as it comes? These...