Mental health is a state of emotional and psychological well-being. This includes the ability to function independently, to establish constructive relationships, to feel emotionally secure, and to cope with stress. It also includes the feeling of being able to enjoy life and to participate in society.
Mental health is a dynamic state of equilibrium. This equilibrium is a combination of social, psychological, and cognitive skills. Basic cognitive skills include the ability to pay attention, remember, solve problems, and make decisions. Social skills include the ability to interact with others, to understand and express emotions, and to perform basic tasks in a social environment.
People who have a mental illness need treatment and are likely to need help in recovering. Early identification is important. Treatment is individually tailored, but it may involve psychotherapy and other modalities. Depending on the nature of the disorder, some treatments are more effective than others. In addition, the condition can affect the individual’s family and social relationships. If the disorder is not treated at an early stage, further harm can be caused. Fortunately, recovery is possible for many people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes community-based care. The organization provides technical and strategic support, as well as evidence and tools for improving mental health. WHO also focuses on empowering individuals who have experienced a mental illness. The organization provides tools, resources, and leadership to help communities build resilience and promote mental well-being.
There are many risk factors for developing mental health conditions. Some of these risk factors are biological. Other risk factors are the demands of society and life circumstances. These demands can exceed a person’s ability to cope with them.
For example, if a person has lost a job and has few occupational opportunities, most people would consider this a negative event that can result in an unhealthy mental state. On the other hand, if a person has experienced trauma and is suffering from a serious mental illness, then the person’s mental health is likely to be affected.
Anxiety can be a serious factor in people’s lives. It can affect how they think, how they handle interpersonal relationships, how they feel about themselves, how much sleep they get, and how they handle stress. Stress can also impact their memory and concentration, as well as their energy level. Those with anxiety tend to act differently than healthy individuals, and they can benefit from professional assistance.
People who have a mental illness are not at fault. A mental illness is caused by the complex interplay of structural and biological stresses. They may have been born with a particular condition, but they are not a result of genetics or personal weakness. Moreover, most mental illnesses are treatable. Recovery can be accomplished by receiving proper care and engaging in a positive lifestyle.
In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of mental health requires a multisectoral approach. In addition to focusing on the social determinants of mental health, the WHO also emphasizes a holistic, human rights-based approach to improve mental health.