What is Mental Health?

what is mental health and how can vitalia help

Mental health reters to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. How we think, feel, and act. How we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

There are 3 main components:
  1. Emotional well-being
  2. Psychological well-being
  3. Social well-being.

For types of mental health, visit our mental health services page.

Aspects of mental health

1. Emotional well-being

The ability to manage and express emotions in a healthy way

This includes experiencing a range of feelings – from joy to sadness. Emotional well-being means being able to cope with life’s challenges.

2. Psychological well-being

Cognitive processes

Aspects like self-esteem, the ability to think clearly, and the capacity for resilience and problem-solving.

3. Social well-being

How we react interact with others

Building and maintaining satisfying relationships, feeling a sense of belonging, and contributing to the community.

Mental Health Disorders

Anxiety disorders

These include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms often involve excessive worry, panic attacks, and avoidance behaviors.

Mood disorders

Depression and bipolar disorder are the most common. These conditions are characterized by significant changes in mood, energy levels, and daily functioning.

Psychotic disorders

Schizophrenia is a primary example, involving symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and impaired thinking.

Eating disorders

Conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder affect eating behaviors and can have severe physical and emotional consequences.

Personality disorders

These include borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and others, characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience.

Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

These involve repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions), such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

depression and anxiety graphic

Our resident doctor, Dr Kate Schilling is a specialist in ADHD Assessments.

Factors Affecting Mental Health

Biological factors

Genetics, brain chemistry, and physical health conditions can influence mental health.

Life experiences

Trauma, abuse, and significant life changes can impact mental health.

Family history

A history of mental health problems in the family can increase the likelihood of developing mental health issues.

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Promoting Mental Health

Engaging in self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as regular exercise, hobbies, and ensuring sufficient sleep, is crucial for maintaining good mental health. 

Building strong, supportive relationships with friends and family provides essential social support, which can significantly boost emotional resilience.

When necessary, seeking professional help through therapy, counseling, or medication can address specific mental health issues effectively. Additionally, making healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding substance abuse, and managing stress effectively, plays a vital role in sustaining overall mental health and well-being.

Awareness, Support & Care

Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being. Understanding and addressing mental health issues through awareness, support, and proper care can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Recognizing the signs of mental health problems and seeking help early can make a significant difference in outcomes and quality of life.

Further Reading

If you, or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or use any of these crisis helplines: 

Mental Health Services

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