Psychological health is a holistic concept of well being that includes positive emotions and a sense of emotional satisfaction, as well as the ability to deal with negative emotions in healthy ways. It also involves a level of mental flexibility that allows people to cope with life’s challenges and achieve their goals. A lack of psychological health is associated with stress, depression and a variety of physical ailments. People with a good level of psychological health can also enjoy satisfying relationships, work productively and contribute to their communities.
The term “psychological health” is often equated with mental wellness, which is seen as a more desirable state than mental illness. The World Health Organization defines mental wellness as a positive emotional state, a capacity to live a full and creative life, and the ability to adapt to change and meet day-to-day demands. It’s important to note, however, that psychological health doesn’t mean a person is free of mental illnesses or disorders such as anxiety, bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
Those with good psychological health are usually able to control their emotions and use their emotions as a source of motivation rather than allowing them to take over and interfere with the ability to function and achieve goals. They can also recognize and express their own feelings, including negative ones like anger and sadness, and are able to empathize with others. They are able to use their mental skills and abilities in harmony with the universal values of society, which include basic cognitive and social functions, flexibility, and a harmonious relationship between body and mind.
People with poor psychological health are often unable to cope with their negative emotions, and may suffer from depression or other mood disorders. They are often unable to meet their everyday obligations and may have difficulty in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships with other people. They may have a difficult time coping with stressful situations and may be prone to self-destructive behaviors such as drug or alcohol abuse.
Psychologists and other counselors who specialize in psychiatry, counseling psychology and social work are available to help people manage their mental health issues and improve their quality of life. They can offer a wide range of services, including individual therapy and group therapy. Psychotherapy is a general term for various types of talk therapy, and can include gestalt therapy, psychoanalysis, hypnosis, eudaimonic therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. They can also provide psychopharmacology, which is the use of medications such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines to treat emotional disorders. They can be found working in a variety of settings, from hospitals to schools to private practice. Some also use telehealth services to offer their services. Those with poor mental health are at risk of developing serious physical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, according to research. They are also at higher risk for depression and often find themselves searching for a way to fill the void in their lives by using substances such as drugs, alcohol and sex.