Mental health is a person’s ability to understand their emotions, solve problems, make relationships work and contribute to their community. A variety of individual, family, community and structural factors affect mental health. People in poverty, who experience trauma or abuse, or have poor social support are at greater risk for poor mental health. Biological makeup may also predispose people to develop certain mental health conditions.
Taking care of one’s mental health is important because it helps us cope with stress, be more resilient and bounce back when things don’t go our way. Mental wellness also relates to our overall self-esteem and confidence, and how we are able to support others.
A person’s mental health can be negatively impacted by alcohol or drug use, isolation, lack of social support and unhealthy coping mechanisms (such as tantrums or fighting) to manage relationship issues, money troubles, workplace difficulties or general life challenges. High levels of unmet needs for mental health services are seen in low- and middle-income countries. This is likely due to the stigma associated with the need for treatment, immigration status, language barriers and cultural beliefs that limit access to quality care.
Taking care of your mental health starts by knowing the signs and symptoms. Talk therapy and medicine can help treat and prevent mental disorders. If you are worried, you should contact your primary care doctor or a counselor. They can provide you with a referral or begin the process of evaluation.
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