Redefining Mental Health and Well-Being
And why a simple understanding of the human experience can help us find well-being better than any coping strategy ever
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.”
And also from the CDC, “Well-being includes the presence of positive emotions and moods (e.g., contentment, happiness), the absence of negative emotions (e.g., depression, anxiety), satisfaction with life, fulfillment and positive functioning. In simple terms, well-being can be described as judging life positively and feeling good”.
If mental health “affects how we think, feel, and act” and is measured by positive thoughts, then I get the logic of trying to change my thoughts. But, how could I possibly find positive thoughts if my thoughts are affected by my mental health?
Good news: there is an alternative. You can find well-being through a deeper understanding of the human experience. No new thoughts, coping strategies, or practice…
