Psychological health is a state of well-being that results from positive psychological functioning and emotional balance. It enables people to work, love, and relate to others effectively and resolve conflicts. In addition, good mental health can help prevent chronic illness and promote longevity.
Psychologists define mental health as the ability to think and behave normally. It includes feelings of contentment, optimism, and resilience and can be affected by a variety of factors. Some researchers believe that genetic factors may partly determine a person’s characteristic level of well-being.
Mental health conditions include anxiety, depression, phobias and bipolar disorder (mood swings). It is important to recognize the symptoms of these disorders so that you can get treatment.
Mood disorders involve sudden changes in mood and emotional feelings, such as nervous excitement or sadness. These can be related to stress or specific situations, including loss of a loved one or an illness. Some of the most common psychiatric conditions are major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
It is also important to remember that the symptoms of a mental health disorder can be caused by physical conditions, such as fatigue or unexplained aches and pains. Many people with a mental health disorder may experience a variety of other medical conditions at the same time.
A mental health diagnosis can be made after a doctor examines the symptoms, considers the patient’s medical history and performs a thorough mental evaluation. Often, medical tests are used to rule out physical issues that might be causing the mental problems.
Treatment for a mental disorder is individualized and collaborative. It includes psychotherapy, medication and other treatments. Some people choose to use both medication and therapy for their disorder. The goal of this treatment is to reduce the intensity of the symptoms and improve the quality of life.
In many cases, medication can help ease the symptoms of a mental health disorder while psychotherapy is a treatment that focuses on changing the thoughts and behaviors of the person. This type of therapy can be done with a doctor, a psychotherapist or a trained counselor.
The best way to treat a mental disorder is to see a physician or a psychiatrist. These professionals are specialists in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions. They may be referred to by a primary care physician or family member.
Psychotherapists, such as licensed psychologists and social workers, can also help individuals overcome mental health conditions. They often use talk therapies and science-based treatment methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
These professionals can teach coping skills, such as relaxation techniques and exercise. They can also give advice on how to handle stressful situations and how to resolve conflict.
They can also provide support during life changes such as moving, going to college or getting married. Depending on the client’s needs, they can also offer guidance in managing addictions and eating disorders.
Although it can be challenging to change a negative or maladaptive behavior, it is often the best route to improving your mental health. It is often necessary to change your lifestyle in conjunction with therapy and medication. The combination of these treatments can make the most impact on your condition and help you manage it more effectively.