Mental Health

 

In its true meaning, mental health is a state where an individual understands his abilities to work productively, and capacity to cope with daily pressures of life, all the while contributing to his community. In simpler terms, mental health is a “positive physical, mental and social state of mind”. There is no set definition for this term, but there are certain parameters which can be used to define and analyze one’s mental wellbeing status.

These parameters are:

·       Connecting with society and community

·       Feeling a sense of freedom in life

·       Feeling a sense of purpose

·       Feeling valued

·       The ability to deal with life in all its shapes and forms

·       Coping with challenges and availing opportunities

It is to be noted that mental health does not mean being happy every second of the day. Neither does it mean the absence of pain and negative feeling. Rather the concept of mental wellbeing suggests that a person is more likely to handle grief and loss in a much healthier manner, and not turn life traumas into a way of living.

“mental wellbeing is not destination, it is a journey. It’s not about where you reach, it’s about how you drive”

There are different emotional and psychological disturbances that we experience starting form our childhood to adulthood, and each individual cope with these traumas according to their own mental capabilities. Some people are good at dealing with pain and suffering, some people tend to hide or negate pain, while some do not know hoe to deal with even a small instability in their life.

Does mental health equal physical health?

While mental health is not the same as physical health, both are however linked to each other with very strong ties. People with mental health issues get sick easily. They are more prone to infection and life long disorders such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and cancers etc. In contrast, people with a good mental health are good at overcoming illnesses in a shorter time. They are less likely to fall victim to the mental disorders like depression and anxiety.

How to look after your mind?

Mental health has a close bond with communication and physical activity. A few ways in which mental health can be increased

·       Choose a good fuel: your body is what you feed it. Similar is you mind. Eating less processed food is linked with sharpness of mind. Similarly, the fast-food or processed and frozen foods have been observed to be linked with decreased mental functions.

·       Stay in touch: keeping in touch with your community and your friends and family has a positive impact on the mind and overall wellbeing of an individual.

·       Take a break: take regular breaks from mundane life, home and office to have time for yourself.

·       Reflect: reflecting on your behavior and emotions will help you understand your mind more.

·       Back to nature: take break from social media and go for a walk in the nature. People who is closer to nature have lesser mental health issues.

·       Keep yourself active: not to be mistaken with staying busy all the time, but the lesser time you have to overthink, the lesser negativity will stick to your mind.

·       Ask for help: don’t be shy to ask help regarding your mental health from your family or friends, or a professional.