Defining Mental Health

Despite growing awareness, the stigma surrounding mental health and persistent communication gaps make it challenging for many to understand what it means to be mentally healthy. Additionally, some individuals may not even recognize the factors influencing their mental health. Educating individuals and fostering discussions about mental health in both personal and professional spheres are crucial for enhancing relationships, productivity, and individual well-being.

Defining mental health can be complex, involving multiple considerations. Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, as noted by Bhugra, Till, and Sartorius. It does not exist in isolation but intertwines with our physical and emotional health. It can be defined in several ways: as the absence of disease, as a state that allows full functionality, or as a balance within oneself and with one’s environment. The World Health Organization defines it as a state of well-being in which individuals recognize their abilities, manage life’s stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community. The Mental Health Foundation notes that mental health is defined by how individuals think and feel about themselves and their life, and that it affects how an individual copes and manages in times of adversity (Bhugra et el., 2013). The Society for Health Education and Promotion Specialists (SHEPS, 1997) suggests that mental health also involves feeling positive about oneself and others, feeling glad and joyful and loving. Mental health, like mental illness, is also affected by biological, social, psychological and environmental factors (Bhugra et el., 2013).

A person in good mental health, as described by Bhugra and colleagues, has a strong sense of self and can form positive relationships while being comfortable alone. Mental health is influenced by biological, social, psychological, and environmental factors, some controllable and others not. Thus, being mentally healthy involves a complex, multidimensional consideration of various personal factors.

These definitions provide an excellent foundation for understanding the broader scope of mental health. It’s important to recognize that mental health can vary from one individual to another, influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. Internally, cognitive patterns, self-judgment and criticism, comparisons, substance abuse, genetics, biochemistry, personality traits, and emotional regulation all play significant roles. Externally, social and environmental influences, including family dynamics, workplace environments, peer interactions, and cultural norms, also significantly impact mental health. This comprehensive perspective is essential for fostering a deeper understanding of mental health issues and developing effective support systems.

The core senses of mental health include trust, challenge, competency, accomplishment and humour, and the capacities that mental health offers include the ability to develop psychologically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually; initiate, develop and sustain mutual emotionally satisfying relationships; the ability to be aware of others and to empathize with them; and to use psychological distress as a development process and learn from it so that it does not hinder or impair further development (Bhugra et el., 2013).

Achieving mental health involves reaching a state of equilibrium that balances various aspects of one’s life. This balance encompasses emotional well-being, psychological resilience, emotional intelligence, and personal fulfillment, all while navigating environmental factors. It is crucial to ensure that basic life needs are met without causing undue stress or strain on an individual’s mental state. A harmonious integration of these elements promotes a robust foundation for mental health, empowering individuals to thrive in their personal and professional lives. This holistic approach is essential for anyone seeking to maintain or improve their mental well-being.

Just like our physical and spiritual well-being, maintaining our mental health is a personal journey that profoundly affects every aspect of our lives. It is vital to dedicate time and attention to nurturing your mental health to lead a more peaceful and fulfilling existence. Each day presents an opportunity to evolve into a better version of yourself than the day before, striving to be the best version the world has ever seen. Embrace this journey with commitment and mindfulness, and witness the transformative power of prioritizing your mental health.

“Accept yourself, and keep moving forward. If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down” – Roy T. Bennett

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Bhugra, D., Till, A. & Sartorius, N. (2013) What is mental health? International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 59 (1): 3-4. DOI: 10.1177/0020764012463315