Mental health is a term used to describe an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. These aspects of a person’s life affect cognition, perception, and behavior. Mental health determines how individuals respond to stress, make decisions, and relate to others. In addition, the condition of one’s mental health can also have a profound effect on their physical and social well-being. There are numerous ways to improve one’s mental health and well-being.
Symptoms of a mental illness can range from feeling angry, to smoking, to taking drugs. People do not choose to be violent or mad. However, people with this condition can find it difficult to function normally, and they may find help by admitting that they have a problem. Regardless of age, race, or family structure, mental illness affects a wide range of people, including children, adults, and the elderly. Therefore, it’s important to seek out help and get the right diagnosis as soon as possible.
Across the world, emotional mental disorders are the leading cause of disability. According to the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey, untreated neuropsychiatric disorders account for 37% of the world’s healthy life years lost to disease. These disorders are especially destructive in low-income countries because they lack the means to provide the necessary assistance. In addition, even economically developed societies face challenges in meeting the mental health needs of their people. In fact, the world’s poorest countries are those most prone to mental health problems.
In some cases, mental illnesses are genetic. This means that individuals carrying a specific gene are more likely to develop the disorder. However, a person may also be genetically predisposed to develop the disorder. In these cases, certain environmental exposures before birth can contribute to mental health problems. A person’s genes affect the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. When these chemicals are not produced properly, these signals cannot be transmitted correctly and the person suffers from emotional disorders.
Anxiety disorders are treatable. Psychotherapy and medication can help people identify their anxiety and use coping mechanisms to deal with it. Mood disorders, on the other hand, are psychological conditions that affect an individual’s mood. These people experience intense emotions of joy and sadness that interfere with their daily life. They can be difficult to manage as well, but treatment is available. There are many different treatment options for mental health conditions, and the sooner you start receiving support, the better.
An expert from the National Institute of Mental Health discusses how to manage stress and anxiety and how to maintain mental health during a COVID-19 pandemic. She also explains when to seek professional help for mental health. Great Practices for Mental Health