Mental health

Introduction

What is mental health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects the way we think, feel and act when we face life. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health is important in all stages of life, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood and old age.

What are mental illnesses?

Mental illnesses are serious conditions that can affect the way you think, your mood, and your behavior. They can be occasional or long-lasting. They can affect your ability to relate to others and function each day. Mental problems are common, more than half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their life. However, there are treatments available. People with mental health disorders can improve, and many of them make a full recovery.

Why is mental health important?

Mental health is important because it can help you:

Coping with the stress of life

Be physically healthy

Have healthy relationships

Contribute significantly to your community

Work productively

Reach your full potential

Your mental health is also important because it can affect your physical health. For example, mental disorders can increase your risk for physical health problems, such as stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

What can affect my mental health?

There are many different factors that can affect your mental health, including:

Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry

Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse

Family history of mental health problems

Your lifestyle, such as diet, physical activity, and substance use

You can also change your mental health by taking steps to improve it, such as meditation, relaxation techniques, and being grateful.

Can my mental health change over time?

Over time, your mental health can change. For example, you may be facing a difficult situation, such as trying to control a chronic illness, caring for a sick relative, or having money problems. The situation can exhaust you and overwhelm your ability to deal with it. This can make your mental health worse. On the other hand, receiving therapy can improve it.

What are the signs of having a mental health problem?

When it comes to your emotions, it can be difficult to know what is normal and what is not. But mental health problems have warning signs, such as:

Changes in your eating or sleeping habits

Isolating yourself from the people and activities you enjoy

Have little or no energy

Feeling empty or like nothing matters

Have unexplained aches and pains

Feeling helpless or hopeless

Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual

Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, angry, upset, worried, or scared

Have severe mood swings that cause problems in your relationships

Having thoughts and memories that you can’t get out of your head

Hearing voices or believing things that are not true

Thinking about hurting yourself or others

Not being able to do daily tasks like babysitting or going to work or school

What should I do if I think I have a mental health problem?

If you think you may have a mental health problem, seek help. Talk therapy and / or medications can treat mental disorders. If you don’t know where to start, talk to your healthcare professional.