World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October every year with the purpose of raising awareness of mental health issues. The official theme for this year’s event is ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’, as decided by the World Federation for Mental Health.
What is mental health?
We all have mental health, and it is just as important as physical health. It is not only about mental illness or mental disorders. It’s best to think about mental health as being on scale rather than people being either mentally ill or mentally well. Our mental health does not stay the same. It can vary as circumstances change and as you move through different stages of your life.
The aim of mental health interventions is to ensure that you’re in good mental health so you can:
- Reach your full potential
- Live satisfying lives
- Cope with normal stresses with life
Most people feel uncomfortable talking about their mental health. However, it is healthy to understand and say how you’re feeling. We all experience periods when we feel stressed or anxious or worried. These are normal emotions and most of them time those feelings pass. However, when these emotions become serious it can interfere with your ability to function daily and these feelings become persistent over time. Eventually, it can lead to mental health problems.
What are mental health problems?
Mental health problems affect the way you think and behave. It ranges from the worries we all experience as part of everyday life to long-term conditions. Majority of us who experience mental health problems can get over them or learn to live with them (during the early stages).
Most mental health symptoms are divided into two groups called either neurotic or psychotic symptoms. Neurotic symptoms are severe forms of ‘normal’ emotional experiences such as depression, anxiety, or panic. Alternatively, psychotic symptoms, interfere with a person’s perception of reality such as hallucinations.
What is good mental health?
Good mental health is determined by a person’s ability to achieve a number of key activities, including:
- Being resilient and able to cope
- Feeling in control
- Being confident
- Feeling good about yourself
- Managing and expressing your emotions
- Building and maintaining good relationships
How to improve your mental health?
Here are 5 steps to improve your mental health:
- Build confidence
- Feel connected
- Stay focused
- Sharpen your mind
- Be healthier
LLC Mental Health Day
Today is #HelloYellow! It is a mental health awareness day started by the charity Young Minds where our staff and students are encouraged to wear yellow and donate money if possible. If you are interested, please visit our sister company for more details – https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dv8sussex2021.
