What is Mental Health?

Mental health isn't just about the absence of mental illness. It's a state of well-being that influences how we experience life on a daily basis. It encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social aspects.

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Emotional well-being involves managing emotions in healthy ways, like feeling happy for a friend's success or sad after a loss. Psychological well-being deals with our thoughts, beliefs, and how we see ourselves in the world. Social well-being focuses on our ability to build and maintain healthy relationships with others. Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

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Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are common and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. These conditions can impact thoughts, mood, and behavior, and they can be influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, life experiences, and family history. Good mental health is about maintaining a balance in various aspects of life and developing resilience to cope with life’s stressors. Essentially, good mental health allows us to cope with life's stressors, function effectively in our relationships and work, and contribute positively to our communities.

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Using various coping strategies such as: getting adequate sleep, having a healthy diet and strong social supports, as well as incorporating physical activity can increase being mentally well. It’s important to know when to seek professional help when needed, which means embracing early intervention.

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Mental health care can involve support from healthcare professionals, community resources, medication, healthy lifestyle choices and possible changes, and reducing stigma around mental health.