Mental Health

Irene Tito, 4/8/24

What is Mental Health?

There are many definitions when it comes to mental health. To some, it is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with stress. Others might say mental health is something to protect, since everything you do flows from your mental stability. The preferable definition of mental health is the state of mental stability. The stability of the mind is what determines mental health, maximum control of thoughts and actions, or a sense of general well-being. While it’s true that mental health can often be stable, it’s important to acknowledge the various factors that can disrupt this stability and impact one’s overall well-being.

1. Psychological factors

These factors often involve individual experience, personality traits, and coping mechanisms. Some experiences in childhood (for example, trauma, abuse, isolation, or significant loss) can have a greater impact on mental health later in life. Sometimes it is personal, meaning, perfectionism or low self-esteem can also influence mental health disorders.

2. Life events.

Significant life events, both positive and negative, can greatly influence one’s mental health, for example, major life transitions such as moving to a new city, witnessing abuse or violence, and experiencing the loss of a loved one. All of these can disrupt the stability of the mind.

3. Social factors.

Social factors and interpersonal relationships can be positive or negative; positive social relations can promote mental well-being while negative social isolation, discrimination, bullying, and loneliness can contribute to mental health problems.

4. Substance abuse.

Substance abuse and addiction can both contribute to and result from mental health issues. Drugs and alcohol can temporarily alleviate symptoms of mental illness but can ultimately worsen mental health in the long term.

5. Trauma and stress, etc.

Traumatic experiences, such as physical or sexual assault, combat exposure, or natural disasters, can have lasting effects on mental health. Chronic stress, whether from work, relationships, financial difficulties, or other sources, can also contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues.

Effects of Disrupted Mental Health

When mental health is disrupted due to various factors (for example; psychological factors, and life events) it often leads to worse conditions. Scientists and researchers have categorized these conditions into four (4) types as follows;

1. Mood disorders ( depression/ bipolar disorders).

Mood disorders encompass conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder. Depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, often accompanied by changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and sometimes suicidal thoughts.

Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, including manic highs (i.e. elevated mood and energy levels experienced in a manic episode) and depressive lows (i.e. extreme depression), impacting daily functioning and relationships.

Mood disorders can be managed with treatment, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, emphasizing the importance of seeking help from mental health professionals for proper diagnosis and support.

2. Anxiety disorders.

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by persistent feelings of worry and fear that are disproportionate to the situation and interfere with daily life.

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms may include excessive worrying, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. Anxiety disorders can vary and may be triggered by specific situations or occur without an apparent cause.

Treatment involves therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

3. Personality disorders.

Personality disorders are mental health conditions where people have unhealthy patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that can cause problems in their relationships and daily lives.

There are different types of personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder (a pattern of unstable, intense relationships, impulsiveness, and an unhealthy way of self-view), narcissistic personality disorder (i.e. an unreasonably high sense of importance and a need for excessive admiration), and antisocial personality disorder. Each type has its specific traits and

behaviors. Symptoms may include difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, unstable emotions, impulsivity, and distorted self-image.

4. Psychotic disorders ( schizophrenia).

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can cause symptoms such as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (believing things that aren’t true), disorganized thinking, and difficulty expressing emotions. People with schizophrenia may also have trouble concentrating and may withdraw from social activities.

Maintaining Good Mental Health

Due to the disorders or conditions caused by the disruption of mental health, it is crucial to maintain good mental health. Therefore, how can one maintain good mental health?

1. Prioritize self-care.

Self-care is taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental needs. This includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, regular exercise, and finding activities to engage in or doing things that you enjoy.

2. Having positive social relations.

Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or mental health professionals whom you can turn to for encouragement, advice, and empathy during challenging and confusing times.

3. Set boundaries.

Setting healthy boundaries is essential for preserving your mental health and well-being. Learning to say no to commitments or situations that drain your energy or cause unnecessary stress is vital for a good mental health journey.

4. Engage in hobbies and activities.

Dedicate time to activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it’s painting, swimming, playing music, or singing. Engaging in hobbies can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

5. Seek professional help when needed.

Do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re struggling with your mental health. Therapy, counseling, or medication can be valuable tools for managing and improving mental well-being.

6. Practice gratitude.

Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by regularly reflecting on the things you’re thankful for in your life. Gratitude can help shift your focus away from negative thoughts and promote feelings of positivity and contentment. 

Why is maintaining good mental health important?

Mental health includes one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how one thinks, feels, and acts. It also helps to determine how one handles stress, relates to others, and makes healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

In summary, mental health encompasses one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how one thinks, feels, and acts in life. Various factors can disrupt mental health, including, trauma, stress, and environmental influences. Understanding the types of mental health conditions, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and schizophrenia, highlights the diverse challenges individuals may face. However, maintaining good mental health is crucial for overall well-being, involving self-care, positive relations, hobbies, and setting boundaries. Prioritizing mental health enhances individual resilience and coping skills, fosters healthier relationships, and improves overall quality of life.

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov>mentalhealth>learn 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (.gov)

https://www.mayoclinic.org 

Mayo Clinic (personality disorders)

https://www.nimh.nih.gov>health>topics>schizophrenia 

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (.gov)

TAMSA MUHAS

Tanzania Medical Student’s Association

https://www.who.int 

World Health Organization