Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and behave. It also helps regulate how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Mental disorders are common, but often go ignored, or purposely hidden due to shame. These illnesses are serious disorders which can affect your thinking, mood, and actions. There are many causes of mental disorders. Your genes and family history may play a major role. Your life experiences, such as stress or a history of abuse, may also matter. Biological factors can also be part of the cause.
Maintaining Your Mental Health
Even people who have good emotional health can sometimes have emotional problems or mental illness. However, here are 4 simple ways to keep your head happy.
Express your feelings appropriately:
It’s important to let people close to you know when something is bothering you. Keeping feelings of sadness or anger inside takes extra energy. It can also cause problems in your relationships and at work or school.
Think before you act
Emotions can be powerful. But before you get carried away by your emotions and say or do something you might regret, give yourself time to think.
Strive for balance in your life
Make time for things you enjoy. Focus on positive things in your life. Make the most of the little things you can be grateful for.
Take care of your physical health
Your physical health can affect your emotional health. Take care of your body by exercising regularly, eating healthy meals and getting enough sleep. Don’t abuse drugs or alcohol.
Signs of Caution
Not sure if you or someone you know is living with mental health problems? Experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviors can be an early warning sign of a problem:
- Eating or sleeping too much or too little
- Pulling away from people and usual activities
- Having low or no energy
- Feeling numb
- Having unexplained aches and pains
- Feeling helpless or hopeless
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
- Yelling or fighting with family and friends
- Experiencing severe mood swings
- Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
- Thinking of harming yourself or others
- Inability to perform daily tasks
Treatment
Therapy and counseling are types of treatment to improve your mental well-being. These treatments can help people who are experiencing emotional or behavior problems, or people who have a mental health disorder. To visit a psychotherapist, or for any mental health related problems, visit: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_physicalmedicinerehabilitation/psychology.html
Group therapy is a method often used by therapists. Support groups are guided by a qualified leader. This professional facilitates a small group of people who have similar issues or problems. A group situation can improve honest interaction with others. Group members can also support each other during times of crisis and/or achievement. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital also provides a variety of support groups to ensure that patients are well-supported throughout their illness. For more information, check: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/support_group.html
