The state of one’s mental health determines how well an individual deals with stress, interpersonal relationships and decision-making. Unfortunately, many people who suffer from mental illness do not seek treatment, despite the fact that it is just as important as their physical health. Untreated mental illness results in higher medical expenses, poorer performance at work and home, lower levels of self-esteem and a greater risk for suicide. Taking care of your psychological health can prevent such outcomes, and there are numerous ways to do so.
A variety of factors can impact your psychological health, including genetics, your environment, trauma and traumatic experiences, substance abuse and other conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Psychological disorders are very common and affect 19% of adults, 46% of teenagers and 13% of children each year. They may include a wide range of symptoms like anxiety disorders, which can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder, and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
People who have good mental health are able to bounce back from life’s difficulties, such as loss and disappointment. This ability to cope and recover from such events is called resilience.
Having a solid psychology is the foundation for positive and healthy relationships with others. It is also vital for success at work and in school. Those with good mental health are better able to focus, concentrate and perform in their job. Poor mental health, however, leads to more missed workdays, lower productivity and decreased financial security.
There are a number of ways to take care of your psychological health, including exercise and nutrition. In addition, meditation and mindfulness exercises can help relieve stress. Getting plenty of sleep and spending time with family and friends can also improve your psychological health.
While we often hear about the negative effects of mental illness, few people are aware that it is possible to treat and even cure many of these conditions. Mental health professionals use talk therapy, or counseling, to treat many mental illnesses. This includes group therapy, which involves at least two other people plus a mental health professional.
Psychotherapy is also used to treat certain conditions, such as depression and anxiety. A type of psychotherapy known as cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on the patient’s thought patterns and behaviors and how they relate to their problems. The goal of this form of treatment is to teach the patient how to change these negative patterns and make healthier choices.
People with healthy mental wellness are less likely to be involved in violent crimes and are more productive at work. They are also more able to build and maintain healthy relationships, according to research. Mental health is a priority for everyone, and the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of maintaining good psychological health. People can get support for their mental health through various services, including community and social groups, schools, churches and hospitals. There are even organizations, such as Dr. Shawna Charles’s Los Angeles boxing gym, that offer fitness, an ear to listen and access to mental health care.