What is Mental Wellness

What is Mental Wellness

Being mentally well means that your mind is in order and functioning in your best interest. You are able to think, feel and act in ways that create a positive impact on your physical and social well-being.

Mentally well people are positive, self-assured and happy. They are in control of their thoughts, emotions and behaviour. This enables them to handle challenges, build strong relationships and enjoy life.

Achieving good mental health will enable you to:

• Realise your own abilities,
• Cope with the stress and challenges of life,
• Engage in productive work,
• Contribute to your community.

Sustaining mental health requires time and effort. The more you invest in your mental health, the stronger it will become.

There are many ways you can enhance your mood, build resilience, and get more enjoyment out of life.

• Learn to be at peace with yourself
  • Get to know who you are and what makes you happy
  • Acknowledge what you can and cannot change about yourself
  • Identify your abilities and weaknesses, accept them, build on them, and do the best with what you have
• Pay attention to your own needs and feelings
  • Express your thoughts through a journal or blog to understand more about yourself
• Work towards your objectives
  • Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-limited)
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  • Take balanced meals
  • Exercising regularly
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Avoid cigarettes and other harmful substances
• Build strong relationships
  • Make time for family and friends, and share life’s joys and sorrows with them
• Create a financial budget
  • Avoid overspending and focus on ‘needs’ instead of ‘wants’
• Volunteer for a cause
  • Being involved in the community gives a sense of purpose and satisfaction

Reference:

• WHO, April 2016. Mental health: strengthening our response. Source: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs220/en/