Mental health is the overall state of a person’s emotional and psychological well-being, including how they cope with life’s challenges. This includes emotions, such as anger and sadness, and how a person interacts with others in their everyday lives. It also includes how people think, and how they make decisions. People who have good mental health can manage daily stress and can function well at work, home, and school.
Having good mental health can help you live longer and have a greater quality of life. It can help you get along with others, and it can give you the confidence to learn new skills and take risks.
Some people who have mental health problems need treatment to help them. This can include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medicines. Psychotherapy helps people understand and change the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that cause them harm. Medicines can reduce or eliminate the symptoms of certain mental illnesses. They can also improve a person’s quality of life by increasing their energy, reducing pain, and helping them sleep.
Emotional mental disorders are the leading causes of disability worldwide, causing people to miss out on healthy, productive years of living. They are especially harmful to low and middle-income countries, where they may contribute to economic decline, unemployment, poor quality of life, and social instability. However, modern medical and psychological treatments can reduce the burden of these disorders in low and middle-income countries.
Many people who need treatment for a mental illness don’t get it. This can be due to a lack of resources, stigma, or difficulty finding a provider. People may also have trouble accessing care because of pandemic-related challenges such as university closures, limited transportation, and staff shortages. In addition, some people who need treatment are less likely to receive services because of their age, gender, race, or insurance status.
People can help themselves by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs. They can also try to resolve any relationship or job issues that might be causing them distress. They can also use a variety of techniques to help them relax, such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness.
If a person’s thoughts, mood, or behaviour change suddenly or over time in a way that worries them or their loved ones, they should see a doctor. The doctor will ask questions about the changes and do a physical exam. They may also recommend some blood tests or imaging tests to rule out any underlying conditions that could be causing them.