Brian health explained: What is mental wellness?
Dr. Elaine Patterson explains "mental wellness".
What is mental wellness exactly?
According to the World Health Organization, good brain health is a state in which every individual can realize their own potential and abilities and optimize emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and psychological functioning to cope with life situations.1
The Global wellness institute goes even further and defines “mental wellness” as “an active process of moving from languishing to resilience to flourishing. On one level, mental wellness is about prevention; coping with life’s adversity; and being resilient when we face stress, worry, loneliness, anger and sadness. On another level, mental wellness moves us toward a deeper, richer and more meaningful human experience, which is often described as flourishing. What it means to flourish is subjective and personal, and it is shaped by individual values, culture, religion and beliefs”.2
Ultimately, mental wellness is interconnected, multidirectional, personal.
Mental wellness is a dynamic state of well-being where an individual can cope with life's challenges, work productively, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mental Wellness recognizes the holistic nature of our health and well-being.
That means the state of our mind affects our body, and vice versa – the “mind-body” connection.
It encompasses emotional resilience, self-awareness, and a positive mindset. It is not merely the absence of mental illness but rather a proactive pursuit of balance in emotional, psychological, and social dimensions.
What is healthy mental wellness?
Healthy mental wellness involves acknowledging and managing stress, fostering healthy relationships, and maintaining a sense of purpose. Identifying good mental wellness includes recognizing one's emotions, seeking support when needed, practicing self-care, and cultivating a growth-oriented mindset. It involves a holistic approach that values mental health as an integral part of overall well-being.
Mental health vs. mental wellness: what is the difference?
Mental health and mental wellness are related concepts, but they have distinct nuances. Mental health typically refers to the absence of mental disorders or illnesses. It is a state where an individual's cognitive and emotional functions are in a stable and satisfactory condition. Mental health often involves the diagnosis and treatment of specific conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia.
On the other hand, mental wellness goes beyond the absence of mental illness. It encompasses a positive and proactive approach to mental well-being, emphasizing overall psychological health. Mental wellness includes factors like emotional resilience, stress management, self-awareness, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. It focuses on fostering a state of flourishing rather than merely addressing or preventing mental health issues. In essence, mental wellness is a broader and more holistic concept that encompasses a positive and proactive approach to mental well-being.
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Sources
https://www.who.int/health-topics/brain-health#tab=tab_1
https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/what-is-wellness/mental-wellness/#:~:text=Mental%20wellness%20is%20an%20active,%2C%20loneliness%2C%20anger%20and%20sadness.