Dear Counsellor:

I am a graduate of a local university and am unable to find a job. I have sent résumés and applications without much success.

Minerva

Dear Minerva:

It's never easy to find a job that we think we need.

Entry-level jobs that will propel you up the career ladder are available. You have to be prepared to be flexible and creative. Many of the skills learned at the university will help you in any job that you take.

Communication skills in writing and speaking are always useful. Skills learnt in extra-curricular activities can find use in your job.

Networking in organisations is critical to enabling you to make contacts with leaders in the workplace. You need to improve your marketability by increasing your visibility. Of course, a good reputation is a feather in your cap.

Many service clubs have various projects that you could get involved in. Volunteering at various agencies is quite helpful as you will be in contact with lots of power brokers.

Another important area is the church community. Get involved so that you are known and you know the other members. Getting to know people who know others is very important. Networking is an invaluable skill.

Continue to write applications but think big. A combination of factors will land you that job. Pray daily. Any journey begins with a single step.

Dear Counsellor:

I am interested in mental health. What are the issues that involve mental health? Is it only about the street people or does it involve the normal persons?

Mark

Dear Mark:

Mental health involves the relationship between the mind and body. Mind and body work together and influence each other. Self- esteem, self-image, self-care and appearances affect an individual. People need to love themselves and care for their bodies so that they can be healthy.

There is a saying, 'As a man speaketh, so is he.' Whatever we think or say, we may do.

We need to be positive in our speech and action. Many people have gained great wealth and health by positive thinking. In this world, it is a task to think and act positively.

We, therefore, need to practise positivity in small amounts and encourage ourselves. We need to be motivated to think positively, even in adversity.

inferiority

Constantly comparing ourselves with others may stimulate feelings of inferiority and low self-worth.

Self-care, self-respect, exercise, diet and spirituality will help you in life.

When people hear 'mental', they think of madness and naked people on the streets. Mental health involves everyone.

The severely ill patient needs to improve his mental health. We, therefore, need to manage the stressors of life and cope with both success and failure. We need to have coping strategies to deal with adversities and disasters. We need to adjust to the changes in life. Change is guaranteed.

Mental health also involves our relationship with others and our productivity at the workplace. It also includes community involvement and family interactions.