What is mental or emotional health?
The Surgeon General's report defines mental health as "the successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities, fulfilling relationships with other people, and the ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity."
Mental health generally refers to an individual's thoughts, feelings and actions, particularly when faced with life's challenges and stresses. Good mental health isn't just the absence of mental health problems. Although different cultures have differing expectations for health, many of the following characteristics are likely to be present in individuals with good mental health:
- a sense of well-being and contentment
- a zest for living - the ability to enjoy life, to laugh and have fun
- resiliency - being able to deal with life's stresses and bounce back from adversity
- self-realization - participating in life to the fullest extent possible, through meaningful activities and positive relationships
- flexibility - the ability to change, grow, and experience a range of feelings, as life's circumstances change
- a sense of balance in one's life - between solitude and sociability, work and play, sleep and wakefulness, rest and exercise, etc.
- a sense of well-roundedness - with attention to mind, body, spirit, creativity, intellectual development, health, etc.
- the ability to care for oneself and for others
- self-confidence and good self-esteem
Why is mental health important?
Our minds are not separate entities from the rest of us. When we are distressed, our physical health is also affected, and our spirits flag. Many physical conditions are actually rooted in a state of mind, or in a history of stress that has never been balanced. Our personal relationships and work abilities are affected by both physical and mental health issues. Lives can even be endangered when people are stressed, depressed, anxious, or grief-stricken.
Self-help for improving mental health
Many minor mental health problems can be relieved by some common-sense measures. If you find yourself feeling "blue," "out of sorts," "stressed out," or "in a funk," you can take some steps such as the following to see if you feel better:
- Get enough rest
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
- Engage in physical activities
- Do something that for you is fun or relaxing (go to a funny movie, take a walk on the beach, listen to music, read a good book, talk to a friend, etc.)
- Attend to your spiritual needs by meditating, praying, or appreciating a beautiful sunset
- Make a list of the things that are troubling you; then fold it and put it away for the rest of the day
- Prioritize your challenges and deal with the ones that are either most stressful or easiest to check off the list
- Be sure to spend ample time with people whose company you enjoy, generally those who have an upbeat and positive attitude.
If you find you are continuing to feel depressed or anxious to the extent that these feelings are interfering with your work or personal life, consult a mental health specialist for assistance. The sooner you get help, the less negative outcomes you are likely to experience as a result.
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