The terms mental health and mental wellness are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct concepts with a crucial relationship. Understanding the difference between them is essential for promoting overall well-being and taking proactive steps towards a healthier and happier life. This blog post will explore these differences, highlighting why both concepts are vital.
Defining Mental Health
Mental health refers to our cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being. It encompasses how we think, feel, and behave. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is ‘a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community’.
Mental health exists on a continuum, ranging from optimal mental health to mental illness. Mental health problems and mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder can disrupt a person’s thoughts, feelings, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning.
Defining Mental Wellness
Mental wellness, on the other hand, is a proactive and holistic approach to maintaining a positive state of mental well-being. It involves actively engaging in practices and strategies that support and enhance your mental and emotional state.
Essentially, mental wellness is about building resilience, fostering positive relationships, managing stress, and cultivating a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It’s an ongoing journey of self-care and personal growth aimed at optimizing mental and emotional health, regardless of whether or not you have a mental illness.
The Relationship Between Mental Health and Mental Wellness
Mental health and mental wellness are interconnected and complementary. While mental health describes your overall state of psychological well-being, mental wellness is the active process of maintaining and improving it.
Think of it this way: your mental health is like your physical health – it’s the overall condition of your mind. Mental wellness is like exercise and healthy eating – the actions you take to keep your mind healthy. Good mental wellness practices can positively impact mental health, and conversely, neglecting mental wellness can negatively impact mental health.
At Ori Hope Counseling we want you to understand why both are important
Understanding both mental health and mental wellness is crucial for several reasons:
- Reduces Stigma: Recognizing that mental health exists on a spectrum and that mental wellness is accessible to everyone helps reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
- Promotes Proactive Care: Focusing on mental wellness encourages individuals to take proactive steps to manage stress, build resilience, and seek support when needed, rather than waiting for a crisis.
- Supports Holistic Well-being: Recognizing the importance of both mental health and mental wellness facilitates a holistic approach to well-being that addresses the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
- Empowers Individuals: By understanding the difference, individuals are empowered to take control of their mental and emotional well-being and make informed decisions about their care.
How to prioritize your Mental Wellness and what to do to improve it
Here are some practical steps you can take to prioritize your mental wellness:
- Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, listening to music, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness.
- Build Strong Relationships: Nurture meaningful connections with friends, family, and community members.
- Manage Stress: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, such as exercise, meditation, or journaling.
- Set Goals and Pursue Your Passions: Engage in activities that give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
- Seek Support When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to us, here at Ori Hope Counseling we can provide the professional help needed if you’re struggling.
By understanding the difference between mental health and mental wellness and actively prioritizing your mental well-being, you can pave the way for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
