Photo credit to NHS Dudley Clinical Commissioning Group
Mental health, defined by the World Health Organization, is “a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community” ~ WHO
“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 choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. ~ mental health.govOver the course of your life, if you experience mental health problems, your thinking, mood, and behavior could be affected.
Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including: Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry; Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse; Family history of mental health problems
Promote mental health and well belling is one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly. It is normal and understandable that people are experiencing fear, anxiety and worry with the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently mental health has been a buzz word everywhere . Various initiatives to create awareness about mental health are mushrooming you could notice in social media, news, .
Just like the physical heath, there are 2 parts in Mental Health., Mental Wellness and Mental Disorder/illness. Sign of Good mental health is when you
are confident when faced with new situations or people.
feel optimistic. don't always blame yourself.
set goals.
feel good about yourself.
have good self esteem.
Sign of bad/poor mental health is when you
feel sad or down.
are confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate.
have excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt.
have extreme mood changes of highs and lows.
withdraw from friends and activities.
have significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping.
According to WHO, mental disorders/ mental health illness include: depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychoses, dementia, and developmental disorders including autism. You can further read more here
Below pictures illustrate the spectrum of mental health which self explanatory.
As a Professional Life Coach, mental wellness will be an area that I could create awareness for my clients and support them towards living a fulfilling life with a healthy Body, Mind & spirit.
Mind is “ heart “ in Chinese word. To have a healthy mental Heath, It is important To:
Take care of our mind/heart by maintaining positive energy
When there is something upsetting you, Ask yourself” what can I see this differently?”
Be aware of our emotion/feelings/mood
Do I want to be right or be happy? Choose wisely
Always be happy & joyful
Constantly do a self check by asking “am I happy at this moment?”
Mental Health has a lot to do with our heart and spirit and I will refer it as our core being. Slow down allocate some “me” time despite the busy schedule, Be connected, be in touch with ourself , practice self- love . Look inward, reflect, forgive , let go,, let come. Start a journey to U- turn to love , this will keep us in the green zone of mental health spectrum .