The popular saying “good mental health” gives a large meaning to our life as health is considered the most valuable & precious for every individual. Good health means not only a state of absence of disease in the body but a complete physical mental, social as well as spiritual well being of the individual.
Here we’re talking about mental health.
Overall mental health is as important as your physical health. While we try to keep our bodies, outfit and custom shirts fit and healthy, it is also necessary to keep our mind fit and strong too.
In 21st century almost half generation across the globe are experiencing different forms of depression and anxiety caused by peer pressure, family concerns and poor self-esteem.If our mental health is strong then our physical health will get strong too.
To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind stronger and clear. Every year “World Mental Health Day” is observed on 10th October. It was started as an annual activity. By the world federation for mental health by deputy secretary general of UNO at that time. Mental Health resources differ significantly from one country to another.
The World Health Organization defines mental health as a condition of well being in which one realizes one’s own abilities so that he can withstand the normal stresses of life and is able to contribute to society.
Mental Health affects our everyday lives, family and social understanding and physical health. It helps in balancing various life events.
Research suggests that every fourth person is suffering from mental illness, but is afraid to see a doctor, knowing that he is struggling with a mental problem alone. The big reason for this is the misconception of our society about mental problems or being prejudiced. We may not remember that we have ever gone to a doctor or hospital to diagnose a mental problem while from minor physical problems like cold and fever to the biggest illness like heart diseases, diabetes and cancer, we seek medical advice immediately.
Like physical illness, there are many types of mental problems that are possible to diagnose, but by not getting medical advice at the right time, small mental problems become big and sometimes can be fatal.
It is important to recognize those who educate the society about the importance of keeping our minds healthy and giving the proper interaction and treatment to those who have a hard time coping up with the mental health issues. Like physical illness, mental illness can be treated and cured.
Many organization companies and industry in society are now uniting themselves towards mental health awareness. Fashion companies are making custom T-shirts with encouraging words or phases. Non-governmental organization are reaching out to families who may have a troubled set up and been affecting the mental health of their children.
All of these are positive attributes that could help spread mental health awareness and end the stigma related to anxiety, depression and other mental health.
Disadvantages of bad mental health
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 .
A person can experience poor mental health and not be diagnosed with a mental illness. A person diagnosed with a mental illness can experience periods of physical,mental, and social well-being .
Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health. For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart diseases and stroke.
Mental illness are among the most common health conditions in the united states .More than 50% will be diagnosed with mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime. There is no single causes for mental illness . There are multiple causes which are risk factors which are as follows :
- A history of mental illness in a blood relative , such as a parent or sibling.
- Stressful life situations, such as financial problems, a loved one’s death or a divorce.
- An outgoing (chronic ) medical condition, such as diabetes.
- Traumatic experiences ,such as military combat or assault .
- Use of alcohol or recreational drugs.
- A childhood history of childhood abuse, trauma or neglect.
- Limited healthy relationships.
- A previous mental illness.
Mental illness is a leading cause of disability. If mental illness is left untreated, it can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems. Complications sometimes linked to mental illness include:
- Family conflicts
- Social isolation
- Bereavement
- Severe or long term stress
- Experiencing discrimination and stigma, including racism
- Problems with tobacco , alcohol and other drugs
- Legal and financial problems
- Unhappiness and decreased enjoyment of life
- Self-harm and harm to others , including suicide and homicide
- Weakened immune system
Research suggests that some mental health problems may run in families. For example, if you have a parent with schizophrenia , you are more likely to develop schizophrenia yourself . It can be because of genes or other factors such as environment we grow up in, or the ways of thinking , coping and behaving that we may learn from our parents .
Although the development of mental health problems may be influenced by our genes, researchers haven’t found any specific genes that definitely cause mental health problems.
Effects of mental health on physical health are listed below :
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma ,cancer , cardiovascular disease and arthritis.
- Sleep problems.
- Smoking influences the production of the chemical dopamine level which acts as a symptom of depression.
Bad Mental health leads to following major changes in behavioral and personality factors such as :
- Sense of entiltlement
- Manipulative Behavior
- Need of Admiration
- Lack of empathy
- Arrogance
- Narcissism
Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent mental illness. Therefore, if you have mental illness , taking steps to control stress , to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help keep symptoms under control by following steps :
- Pay attention towards warning signs.
- Get routine medical care.
- Get help when you need it.
- Take good care of yourself.
- Get regular exercise with proper diet.
- Get enough sleep
- Try relaxation techniques
- Develop good mental practices.
- Seek help from others when in need.
CONCLUSION
One can promote positive mental health in daily life and in life of others by helping people in community programs; participating in physical activities and encouraging participation of family members, work colleagues, friends& neighbours; taking ownership of your life experiences ; eating well ; creating and monitoring safe; identifying and realizing your goals ( self-efficacy).
