What is mental health?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma and help individuals  who are in need. 

In simple words, Mental Health refers to person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act as well as how we handle stress, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.

In alignment with the foundational document of the World Health Organisation, which states, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. Meaning that menta health holds significant implications. Mental health encompasses more than just the absence of mental disorders. The ability of individuals and society as a whole to think, feel, interact, work, and enjoy life is contingent on mental health. Therefore, the promotion, preservation and restoration of mental health are critical concerns for people, communication, and societies worldwide.

Several factors impacting mental health including individual, social, and environmental influences. People exhibit diverse mental health states ranging from normalcy to aggression, anxiety, and beyond. To evaluate someone’s mental health, it’s vital to consider several  critical elements influencing it.

There are several ways to maintain mental health: Prioritise a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, quality sleep, and stress management techniques. Building a strong social network, engaging in hobbies, and practicing mindfulness can also significantly contribute to improving mental health. Lets create a world where mental health is prioritised, conversation are encouraged, and support is always available. Its time to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and to remind ourselves and others that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can build a culture that supports mental well-being, fosters open dialogue and uplift every voice that dares to speak its truth. Every conversation we start, every story we share, bring us one step closer to a more understanding and mentally healthy society.