By Luis R. Orozco, LCSW –
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to her or his community.
The lack of mental health can lead an individual to a painful path where the mind, body, and spirit can be significantly affected, contributing to diseases ranging from depression to cardiovascular conditions and impacting important aspects of personal, family, social and work life.
Current statistics from the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) find that in the United States approximately 43.8 million people suffer from a mental disorder. The same organization also report that 80% of people with mental illness in the United States are unemployed and only 41% of adults with mental illness receive professional assistance.
The good news is that mental illness is treatable and preventable. Below is a list of actions that can assist in improving one’s mental health:
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Exercising
- Sleeping an adequate number of hours
- Engaging in healthy relationships
- Maintaining a healthy spiritual life
- Engaging in self-care
- Having hobbies
- Staying active and productive
- Being part of a community
- Stimulating the brain with intellectual activities
- Receiving professional assistance when needed
In conclusion, mental health is essential to our overall health and wellness. It helps us live healthy, productive and pleasurable lives. It allows us to be productive members of society. By being proactive and making healthy decisions, mental health can be attainable.
