The term ‘mental health’ is often used in reference to mental health conditions, referring to concerns such as depression or anxiety. However, it’s crucial to remember that just as our physical health, mental health is about more than just the absence of illness. This shift from a focus on mental illness to mental health is not just about language. It is an acknowledgment of the importance of promoting mental wellness and not just addressing mental ill health. This article discusses the significance of promoting mental health and shifting the paradigm from just surviving to thriving.
The importance of promoting mental health
Promoting mental health involves stimulating the potential strengths and abilities of individuals, allowing for highs and lows, and helping individuals to lead an emotionally balanced life. Promoting mental health elevates the quality of life and sense of overall well-being by creating an environment that respects and protects basic civil, political, socio-economic and cultural rights.
More importantly, promoting mental health reduces the incidence of mental health problems and conditions. By focusing on positive mental health and wellness, the chances of individual suffering from mental illness is reduced. This decrease in incidence is due to resilience built throughout life, via the positive influences of protective factors and the absence or management of risk factors.
Furthermore, promoting mental health can significantly reduce the costs associated with poor mental health, including treatment costs, loss of productivity and disability payments. It is a cost-effective strategy that benefits not only the individual but also the society at large.
Thriving Vs Surviving
The fundamental difference between surviving and thriving is the quality of life experienced. A thriving individual is an active participant in their life, consciously designing and creating their reality. Instead of just going through the motions, they’re living a life they love and growing as a person.
Contrarily, a person surviving life often feels as though they can’t handle life’s events effectively, and many things are out of their control. They may spend most of their time feeling overwhelmed, trapped or defensive, experiencing life as an ongoing problem rather than an opportunity for growth.
By prioritizing an individual’s mental health, the shift can be made from simply surviving to robustly thriving.
Strategies for promoting mental health and thriving
Considering the importance of mental health, promoting it should be a societal priority. How can this be done? Awareness is the first step. Be understanding of the realities of mental health, and broaden the conversation about it. Encourage those dealing with mental health issues to seek help and provide them with the necessary resources.
In schools and workplaces, foster environments that promote mental wellness. Encourage a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise. Provide opportunities for meaningful activities and contributions.
Finally, invest in mental health. Support more funding for mental health research, treatment, and support. Work to eliminate the stigma of mental health.
Conclusion
The promotion of mental health allows us to shift mindsets from merely trying to survive to thriving. Through mental health promotion, we have the ability to strengthen individuals and communities by facilitating resilience, reducing mental health problems, and furthermore, ensuring a better quality of life. While it’s a long journey, the tide is turning toward maintaining mental wellness and thriving, which is a win for individuals and society as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What do you mean by promoting mental health?
Promoting mental health refers to actions that improve psychological well-being. This may incorporate strategies that enhance individual competencies and protective factors, and decrease risk factors.
- What is the difference between surviving and thriving in terms of mental health?
Surviving in terms of mental health refers to barely coping with the stresses of life, while thriving refers to managing stress effectively, enjoying life, and growing as a person.
- Why is promoting mental health essential?
Promoting mental health reduces the occurrence of mental health problems, increases productivity and improves quality of life.
