Mental Health, defined by the World Health Organization as "the state of mind that enhances health", is simply "the ability to know, understand, apply, identify, plan and control the capability for successful adaptation to present circumstances". Mental health is the first step in achieving well-being. People who think positively, have realistic goals, set reasonable expectations, achieve goals, develop personal responsibility, are self-disciplined, possess integrity, and maintain healthy relationships are more likely to enjoy quality mental health.
The most common symptoms of this mental disorder include mood swings, social anxiety, depression, panic attacks, fatigue, insomnia, stress, and irritability. The term mental disorder covers a broad range of conditions. The majority of these conditions are brought about by the mental processes and behavior that lead up to the development of the particular condition. Some of the conditions are listed below.
Depression is considered one of the major contributing factors to mental health disruptions. However, there are various types of depression and some of them are postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, dysthymia, rapid cycling bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), "depression is the primary disorder for which Medicare Part A funds are paid. Because other conditions may also exist, depressed persons should be given the opportunity to choose among these other options."
Stress is a major factor that may contribute to mental health disorders. There are various types of stress that may affect the overall well-being of an individual. According to the NHS, "stress can have a wide range of effects on health and wellbeing... Some common factors may include unresolved emotions, such as anger, depression, or anxiety, or unrealistic expectations (that things will always go right), unrealistic goals (that things will get better than they do), or changes in social environments (such as loss of a job or moving away from a familiar place). Other factors may include substance abuse or dependence, intermittent or chronic sleep problems, or unprotected sexual intercourse."
Suicidal thoughts are considered a major indicator that a person is going through emotional distress. It can be very scary to know that someone you love is considering committing suicide and that if it does happen, there is little that can be done to stop it. This is why it is imperative to get help for any psychological disorders. If a person has suicidal thoughts, he or she should seek help right away. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help immediately.
There are several warning signs that may help you determine if you or someone you know is having a mental illness. People with mood swings are a good example of this. They may begin to exhibit signs of extreme sadness or happiness for seemingly no apparent reason. They may claim to feel "optimistic" most of the time, yet when push comes to shove and they are faced with a reality that their life is no longer "optimistic" after the incident, they become very sad and depressed, sometimes even suicidal. It is important that if you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms that they get help as soon as possible.
Many people do not realize that their behavior is a result of a mental illness. They often experience the warning signs only after it is too late. Symptoms of depression, extreme fatigue, change in sleep patterns, and changes in eating habits can be a sign of many different diseases and illnesses, so it is important that if anyone you know or yourself exhibits any of these symptoms, then they should get medical attention as soon as possible.
Other symptoms of mental health disorders include unexplained aches and pains, unexplained anger, violent behavior, and suicidal thinking. Suicidal thinking can be a sign of depression and should be treated. Sometimes patients have suicidal thoughts that escalate into thoughts of suicide by themselves or the other person. If anyone you know is displaying any of these symptoms, then you need to get medical attention right away.
