No Health Without Mental Health

By Al Mayadeen
Source: Agencies
10 Oct 2021 20:53

People's emotional, psychological, and social well-being all contribute to their mental health. It impacts how individuals think, feel, and act. It also influences how people cope with stress, make decisions, and interact with others.

Helping others is a key factor to enhance mental health and enjoy a happy life

Mental health all comes down to how individuals think, feel, and act. Moreover, it may have an impact on one's everyday life, relationships, and physical health. It affects all stages of life, from childhood through adolescence, adulthood, and aging.

How is Mental Health Related to Overall Health?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a full condition of physical, mental, and social well-being, not only the absence of disease or illness. According to the WHO, "there is no health without mental health."

Both mental and physical health are critical components of overall health. There are several links between mental health and chronic physical diseases that have a substantial influence on people's quality of life, demand for health care and other publicly supported services, and societal repercussions.

For example, depression and anxiety have been linked to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders, according to research. In addition, according to the findings of the New York City Community Health Poll (a telephone survey of 10,000 New Yorkers from 33 communities), individuals who experience substantial emotional distress are three times more likely to have poor overall health.

What Factors Affect Mental Health?

There are many factors that contribute to mental health problems. Biological elements such as genetics or brain chemistry, life events such as trauma or abuse, and a family history of mental health issues are also aspects to consider.

Social factors linked to mental health have been linked to alcohol and drug use, crime, and school dropout, according to a large body of information. Other risk behaviors, including road trauma and physical inactivity, appear to be influenced by the absence of health determinants and the presence of noxious factors.

Additionally, these factors, behaviors, and mental health have complicated relationships.

How Can Anyone Improve Mental Health?

There are several approaches to dealing with mental health issues. Treatment is extremely individual, and what works for one person may not work for another.

The individual must engage closely with a doctor who can assist him in identifying his requirements and providing appropriate therapy.

Treatments may include psychotherapy, medication, and self-help. Psychotherapy that is carried out by psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists, and some primary care physicians can help patients in recognizing the source of their mental illness and beginning to develop more healthy thought patterns that support daily functioning while reducing the danger of isolation and self-harm.

A person dealing with mental health problems will almost always need to make lifestyle adjustments in order to be happy. Some behavioral changes may include: