Mental Health 101: Understanding the Basics

Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. Since Covid, it’s a term that gets tossed around quite frequently. Some of us feel mental health is private and personal and should remain something intimate between patient and therapist—kept under wraps. Something never brought to the surface in public. Others, however, feel mental health should be a regular part of our conversation; we should talk about it like we talk about the weather.

Most of us stand somewhere in between. And in large part, not because we don’t want to talk about it, but because we would rather not talk about something we don’t fully understand.

Mental health is complicated because it encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social health and, in some ways, our physical health. But just as physical health is crucial for a fulfilling life, maintaining good mental health is essential for resilience, coping with challenges, and leading a happy existence.

At RemedyLIVE, we are committed not only to engaging people in conversations about their mental health but also to helping all of us understand it. Because when we do, we put ourselves in a better position to help ourselves and others. So, let’s delve into the fundamentals of mental health, common disorders, coping strategies, and the importance of seeking professional help when needed.

So What Exactly Is Mental Health?

Mental health refers to our emotional and psychological well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act—literally everything. As I mentioned above, it’s complicated, but here are some key points about mental health that I hope will begin to clear up any confusion you may have.

1. Emotional Resilience:

Good mental health enables us to navigate life's adversities with resilience. It equips us to cope effectively with stress, setbacks, and emotional challenges. So, just paying attention to physical fitness, we should pay attention to our mental fitness as well.

2. Factors Influencing Mental Health:

   - Life Events: Significant life events, such as trauma, loss, or major transitions, can impact mental health.

   - Genetics: Our genetic makeup plays a role in susceptibility to certain mental health conditions.

   - Environment: Our surroundings, relationships, and social support networks affect mental well-being.

   - Daily Habits: Lifestyle choices, including sleep patterns, exercise, and nutrition, contribute to mental health.

3. Strategies for Good Mental Health:

   - Positive Attitude: Cultivate optimism and focus on solutions rather than problems.

   - Physical Activity: Regular exercise positively impacts mental health.

   - Helping Others: Acts of kindness boost our own well-being.

   - Adequate Sleep: Prioritize restful sleep for mental and physical health.

   - Nutrition: A balanced diet supports brain function.

   - Social Connections: Meaningful relationships enhance mental well-being.

   - Effective Coping Skills: Learn healthy ways to manage stress and challenges.

Understanding Mental Illness

Mental illness encompasses a wide range of conditions that affect our thoughts, emotions, and behavior. These conditions can significantly impact daily life. Here are some important points about mental illness. Like any illness, remember two critical facts. First, don’t try and self-diagnose. Neither of us are qualified. Leave it to the professionals. Second, illnesses are treatable—whether through things like talk therapy or in some cases, medication.

1. Common Mental Health Disorders:

   - Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by extreme mood swings, including manic highs and depressive lows.

   - Major Depressive Disorder: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.

   - Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations and interactions.

   - Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life.

2. Statistics:

   - Approximately one in five American adults experiences at least one mental illness each year.

   - One in 25 adults faces a serious mental illness annually, significantly impacting daily functioning.

   - Women, young adults (ages 18-25), and individuals with mixed-race backgrounds are more susceptible.

Owning Your Mental Health

A large majority of people, when we talk about mental health, immediately assume we are talking about mental illnesses. Therefore—the thought goes—if you don’t have a mental illness, then there is no point in talking about it or paying any attention to it.

That’s the wrong way to think about it. Mental health is an all-encompassing term. Mental illness is one part. Think of it this way: None of us want cancer. So we spend a good deal of time and energy eating the right foods and exercising—generally taking care of our bodies, so we minimize the risk. The same is true of your mental health. Don’t wait until there is a problem to think about it.

1. Seek Professional Help: If you experience persistent symptoms or distress, consult a mental health professional. Early intervention is crucial.

2. Reduce Stigma: Promote open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma and encourage seeking help.

3. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care, including mindfulness, relaxation, and stress management.

4. Support Others: Be compassionate and supportive to those facing mental health challenges.

Remember, mental health matters. By understanding the basics, we can foster a more compassionate and informed society, supporting each other on our mental health journeys.