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Mental health Definition: common disorders, early signs and more

by Sharlin Paul

Mental Health is defined as psychological and cognitive well-being. It contributes to an individuals ability to think, feels and behave. People often refer to mental health as a lack of mental disorder. Mental health has an impact on everyday life, relationships and physical health. Good Mental health is essential to maintaining one’s lifelong happiness.

Often Mental health deteriorates when demands for assistance exceed their ability to cope. For example, when people work hard to care for relatives and are experiencing financial difficulties they may experience mental health problems.

Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being. It affects us in many different ways, both positive and negative.

Identifying Early Signs Of Mental Health Issues

Depending upon the disorder and its causes, the early signs may vary. This issue affects the individual emotionally, mentally and affects our behavior. These indicators are mostly applicable to adult populations; however some overlaps also with younger children. Typically there are no specific signs but many combinations suggest mental illness is present. These signs may also manifest themselves in physical attributes. It could involve pains and headaches.

6 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

We have compiled some tips on how to improve your mental health to manage stress and implement positive mental health.

Exercise Regularly.

Physical activity has been shown to help with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Physical activity boosts the brains feel-good chemicals called endorphins. If you feel stressed out, try taking a walk outside or doing yoga. You can also do push ups, sit ups, or any other type of exercise that you enjoy.

Eat Well.

It’s important to eat well, what we consume plays a role in how we feel. Our gastrointestinal system is closely connected to the brain which is one of the reasons why food impacts our mood. Certain foods increases fatigue, anxiety and depression. Eating more fruit and veg in our meals whilst ensuring mindful eating takes place improves mental health so start today!

Meditate.

Meditation can help with managing negative emotions. It helps one be mindful of the thoughts that occur and as a result you are able to quiet the mind and reframe the challenging thoughts. It’s our thoughts that creates our feelings therefore being mindful of your thoughts is vital. It’s also a way of staying in the present rather than thinking way ahead in the unknown.

Connect with Others.

For some being alone can be challenging, it can be hard to not dwell on thoughts when alone. Connecting with others reduces anxiety and depression, studies have shown that it also contributes to higher self-esteem.

Get Enough Sleep.

It’s no secret that sleep plays an integral role in our overall well-being. In fact, lack of sleep has been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and other serious illnesses.

Take Time Out.

One of the effective ways to improve your mental health is to take time out for yourself. Whether it’s taking a walk outside, going for a run, or just sitting down with a cup of tea, spending time alone can help you recharge and relax.

Risk factors

Some people are more likely to develop mental disorders such as schizophrenia or depression if they are not treated adequately. Approximately one in five adults have mental illness. Mental illness may begin anywhere from early childhood to late adulthood, but usually begins early in life. Mental disorders can often be temporary or permanent. It’s possible you have varying mental disorders simultaneously. You could also be suffering from depression and substance abuse.

Should I seek help?

It does not mean that someone who notices some symptoms has a mental disorder. Major life events such as losing a job or a loved one can affect you in varying ways. Some of them may be caused from medical problems. If you start treatment earlier then you may delay or even prevent the most severe symptoms. Get medical help as soon as you feel someone has hurt your feelings. Seeking Therapy or medical assistance when things seem to hard is always good practice for early intervention.

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