What is mental wellness?

Emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing all fall under the category of mental health. It influences how we feel, think, and behave. Additionally, it supports our ability to make choices, connect to others, and handle stress.

From infancy and youth through maturity, mental health is crucial at every stage of life. Your thoughts, emotions, and actions could be impacted if you have mental health issues.

Disorders of the mind

Mental problems, which may be minor or severe, impact a person's thinking, emotions, and/or behavior. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that one in five individuals has a mental illness.

Mental health issues are caused by a variety of circumstances, such as:

Genes or brain chemistry are examples of biological variables.

traumatic or abusive situations in life

mental health issues run in the family

Some types of mental illness include:

disordered antisocial behavior

Anxiety disorders (including social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, specific phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorders).

hyperactivity disorder in children

A bipolar condition

Bipolar disease of the personality

Depression

Anorexia nervosa, binge eating, and bulimia are examples of eating disorders.

Chronic stress disorder after trauma

Schizophrenia

Seasonal affective illness

damaging oneself

Suicide and related behaviors

A person's life and capacity to function are both affected by serious mental illness (SMI). Contrary to popular belief, suffering from a significant mental illness is not a decision, a sign of weakness, or a defect in one's personality. It is not something that just "passes" or can be "removed" by sheer force of will.

First indicators of danger

Unsure whether a loved one you know is struggling with mental health issues? The first indication of a problem might be one or more of the emotions or actions listed below:

Eating a lot or little, or both

Get out of the way of people and daily activities.

possess little to no energy

being indifferent or thinking that nothing matters any longer

A pain or suffering that is not explained

sense of helplessness or vulnerability

utilizing drugs, alcohol, or tobacco more often than normal

Experiencing extraordinary levels of confusion, forgetfulness, jitteriness, anxiety, or panic

arguing or screaming with relatives or friends

enduring big mood swings that strain relationships

enduring persistent ideas and recollections that you can't shake

Having an unfounded belief or hearing voices

Considering harming oneself or someone else

not being able to undertake everyday activities like caring for children, leaving for job, or attending school

Do you suspect that someone you know may be experiencing mental health issues? It might be challenging to talk about mental health. Discover the realities and beliefs around mental health, and learn about discussion starters.

Advice on managing a mental health problem properly

It might be challenging to work, finish school, maintain a regular schedule, maintain cleanliness, have good relationships, and more when you have a mental health issue.

It is possible to manage these diseases, overcome the difficulties, and have a fulfilling and productive life, however, with early and regular treatment, often a mix of drugs and psychotherapy.

These days, individuals may feel better and accomplish their objectives thanks to innovative technologies, evidence-based therapies, and social support networks. These techniques, resources, and tactics include:

Follow the treatment plan. 

Do not stop attending treatment or taking medicine without seeing a doctor, even if you feel better. If a treatment plan has to be continued, work with a doctor to properly change dosages or drugs.

Keep your primary care physician informed. Even if you also see a psychiatrist, regular visits to your primary care physician are crucial to your long-term care.

Learn about the illness. You may follow your treatment plan better if you are informed. The knowledge may also make your family members more understanding and empathetic.

Take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, get adequate sleep, and manage your stress with techniques like tai chi or meditation.

Talk to your family and friends. It's crucial to keep up social connections. Reach out to them for assistance and support through trying times or times of need.

Learn how to cope. People may find it easier to handle stress as a result.

Take time to rest. A restful night's sleep enhances mental clarity, disposition, and general wellness. Anxiety, sadness, and other mental health issues are linked to persistent sleep deprivation.