In conjunction with World Mental Health Day, which is commemorated annually on 10th October, we take this to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health as well as educate people on the importance of our mental health.
Your well-being greatly depends on your mental health. How you are able to function psychologically, emotionally, and socially, among other things, depends on this aspect of your welfare.
Given the significant impact your mental health has on every aspect of your life, it is crucial to protect and improve psychological wellness using the appropriate methods.
Because different circumstances can affect your mental health, we’ll be emphasizing the risk factors and signs that may lead to mental distress. But most importantly, we’ll dive into all of the advantages of having your mental health in its best shape.
Risk Factors for Poor Mental Health
A person’s ability to manage life’s common challenges is considered a sign of good mental health. This condition permits effective work performance and allows for significant societal contributions.
But there are other situations that could make it difficult to deal with life’s unforeseen curveballs. Daily activities and the ability to handle these changes may also be disrupted by these circumstances.
The factors listed below may have an impact on mental health and may increase the chance of psychological disorders.
Biology
Your biological makeup may impact how well you are functioning. Numerous mental health conditions have been found to run in families and can be inherited by family members.
These include illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The Environment
The condition of a person’s typical environment has a significant impact on their mental health. Unpleasant environmental conditions might have a negative impact on psychological health.
For instance, a rise in suicide cases may be influenced by the weather. Similarly, firsthand exposure to natural disasters can raise the risk of acquiring PTSD. Air pollution occasionally has a deleterious impact on symptoms of depression.
Contrarily, being in a supportive social setting can offer security against mental health issues.
Childhood Abuse
A child who experiences physical abuse, sexual assault, emotional abuse, or neglect as they mature is more likely to experience significant mental and emotional distress.
Mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality problems are more likely to develop as a result of abuse.
Abused children may eventually struggle with alcohol and drug use problems. But in addition to mental health issues, child abuse can result in bodily issues including diabetes, stroke, and other types of heart disease.
Lifestyle
Your mental health may be impacted by your way of living. Alcohol drinking, drug use, unsafe sexual acts, smoking, and a poor diet are all practices that contribute to psychological harm. Depression has been associated with these behaviors.
Signs of Mental Health Problems
It is not always obvious to the individual or those around them when their mental health is compromised. There are several cautionary indications, though, that should be looked out for as they could indicate detrimental changes to one’s well-being. These include:
- A shift in eating patterns, such as undereating or overeating
- A significant drop in energy levels
- Becoming more introverted and socially awkward
- Having ongoing feelings of sadness
- Consuming alcohol, cigarettes, or other drugs more frequently than normal
- Unfounded feelings of confusion, rage, remorse, or worry severe mood swings
- Arguing with friends and family
- Hearing sounds from an unknown source
- Considering harming oneself or someone else
- Unable to easily carry out regular chores
Benefits of Good Mental Health
It is impossible to overstate the importance of mental health for overall wellbeing, regardless of age. When psychological wellness is compromised, it can lead to bad behaviors that may harm one’s relationships with others as well as one’s own health.
Here are a few advantages of having strong mental health.
A Stronger Ability to Cope With Life’s Stressors
The difficulties of life may be simpler to overcome when mental and emotional states are at their best.
A stable state of mind may support healthier coping techniques where alcohol/drugs, isolation, outbursts, or fighting may have been used to handle relationship conflicts, financial difficulties, work problems, and other life issues.
A Positive Self-Image
Personal emotions about oneself and mental health are highly correlated. Your overall mental health affects your sense of self-esteem. A healthy mental state can frequently be detected by one’s level of confidence.
A person who is mentally well is more inclined to concentrate on their positive traits. They will focus on these traits and, in general, aspire to lead a long and happy life.
Healthier Relationships
If your mental health is strong, you may be more capable of spending time with, showing affection to, and supporting your friends and family. It may be easier to be there for the people you care about when you’re not experiencing any emotional pain.
Better Productivity
Your ability to be productive may deteriorate if you are dealing with depression or another mental illness. It’s more likely that you will be able to work more quickly and produce work of a higher standard if you feel mentally strong.
Higher Quality of Life
Your quality of life could improve when your mental health is strong. Greater community-building participation may indeed be likely a result. For instance, you could start helping out at charity drives, shelters, food banks, etc.
Additionally, you might discover new interests, meet new people, and visit new places.
How to Maintain Mental Health and Well-Being
It’s important that you look after your mental health because it’s required in improving overall wellness.
A few introductions and changes to lifestyle choices can be necessary to maintain mental wellness. These include:
- Committing to routine workout
- Putting daily rest and sleep as a top priority
- Try meditation
- Learning how to cope with the challenges of life
- Connecting with loved ones
- Maintaining a positive outlook on life
Consulting a specialist for advice is another recognised method to improve and maintain mental health. You can learn healthy social skills and coping skills to use in trying situations through talk therapy.
Additionally, therapy might provide you the tools you need to confront some of your own behavioral issues and make some positive adjustments in your life.
