Mental health is an important part of overall health and a key component of well-being. It is not the absence of illness or infirmity; rather, it is a state in which an individual realizes their abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, and work productively and effectively as a member of society (WHO).
Psychological health encompasses emotional, psychological and social well-being that affects cognition, perception, and behavior. It also determines how an individual handles stress, interpersonal relationships, and decision-making.
A person’s physical and mental health can be improved and maintained by a variety of methods. One proven way to do this is through talking therapy with a licensed therapist. This type of therapy is more effective than medication, and can teach people healthy ways to interact with others and develop coping mechanisms when they are going through tough times.
Emotional wellness refers to the ability of an individual to experience a wide range of positive emotions, while also maintaining a healthy level of emotional regulation and expression. This includes the ability to control or modify negative emotions, such as anxiety, anger and depression.
This is a crucial aspect of mental health because negative emotions can cause physical illnesses. In fact, it is believed that people who regularly experience stress and other negative emotions have a higher risk of developing cancer, heart disease and other health problems than those who maintain a healthy balance of emotional responses and feelings.
It is also known that a person’s mental health can be negatively affected by genetics, family history and environment. This is because many mental illnesses can be passed down in families, and certain genetic factors may increase the chances of an individual developing a disorder.
Alternatively, an individual can take steps to improve their mental health by changing their lifestyle and addressing negative behaviors. This can include eating a healthier diet, exercising, taking more time for relaxation, and seeking counseling.
While mental health is often associated with happiness and joy, it can also be the result of other factors, such as positive relationships, financial security and job satisfaction. In addition, a person’s psychological health can be enhanced through a positive attitude toward life and learning to forgive others.
In addition to the above, an individual’s mental health can be enhanced through education and self-help. This is because learning how to manage your emotions and recognize them in others can help you feel better about yourself and improve your overall mood.
Similarly, learning how to solve problems and overcome obstacles can also contribute to psychological health. These skills can help you become a more effective employee, partner and citizen.
In a world that is increasingly diverse and complex, mental health is essential to ensure that everyone can participate fully in society. This is especially true in countries with large populations and poor socioeconomic conditions, where access to care can be limited or unavailable.