Mental health is a broad category encompassing one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. These three factors influence the way we perceive the world, make decisions, and manage stress. Consequently, maintaining a high standard of mental health is essential to an individual’s overall well-being. If an individual has poor mental health, it may affect his or her ability to cope with stress, social situations, and relationships.
Mental illness often runs in families, and people with certain genes may be more vulnerable to the development of the disorder. Certain environmental factors may also increase the risk of mental illness. Genetics are only one factor, but many other factors are also involved, including life circumstances and the exposure a person had before birth. In addition, certain disorders of the brain affect neurotransmitters, which carry signals from the brain to different parts of the body. Impairment in neurotransmitter networks can lead to behavioral and emotional disorders.
As a result, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 to guide national efforts to improve mental health. The action plan aims to improve mental health care in all countries. In addition to promoting community-based care, the plan also aims to improve research, evidence, and information systems.
There are a number of factors that contribute to psychological and social well-being, such as perceived life satisfaction, optimism, hopefulness, and self-direction. In addition, social well-being is determined by a person’s sense of community and belief in their own potential. The environment, education, and health care are also key determinants of mental health.
Although the signs of mental illness are often accompanied by physical symptoms, self-help can play an important role in recovery and well-being. Individual actions and lifestyle changes can support mental health, including reducing the risk of self-harm and isolation. In addition to counseling, medications can be prescribed to improve symptoms and enable the patient to return to normal routines and social interactions.
Mental health problems such as anxiety and depression can be difficult to diagnose. Sometimes, a depressed mood is a normal response to the death of a loved one, but if it interferes with one’s ability to function normally, the person may need help. A doctor can perform tests such as neurological tests and blood work to determine the correct diagnosis.
The causes of mental illness are unknown and a variety of external and internal factors may contribute to a person’s illness. Fortunately, the majority of individuals suffering from mental illness live happy and productive lives. The benefits of mental health treatment are many. In many cases, medication and psychological therapy can improve the symptoms and improve the quality of one’s life.
Advocates and family members of mental patients have called for better mental health community facilities and more quality long-term inpatient resources. Such efforts will increase access to mental health services and the treatment of the mentally ill.