Introduction

In the World Health Organization’s definition, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” It is obvious that mental health is also an important part of health. Usually, mental health is a very broad concept, and it includes people’s psychological, emotional, and social well-being. With the development of the society, more and more people are falling into a certain mental sub-health state between health and disease or suffering from mental illness. In the research of Twenge et al. and Hidaka, the prevalence of common mental disorders has been gradually increasing over the past few decades. By the research of Clubhouse International, Mental and behavioral health disorders are the first case of disability worldwide now, as the picture shown below.

*Source: World Health Organization, 2012*

However, many people believe that mental health and physical health are two unrelated concepts, and they are neglecting their mental health as mental illness does not affect life as directly as physical illness does. But in real life, mental illness can affect one’s physical health. There has been research suggested that mental status is associated with an increased risk of stroke. Ohrnberger, Fichera and Sutton have also found strong correlations between the state of mental health and physical health. Also, mental health is related to the way we think, feel and act. It determines the way we interact with the outside world and communicate with others, and it greatly affects our ability to handle stress and face challenges.

*The relationship between some common disease and mental illness*
*Source:* *https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/physical-health-and-mental-health*

Therefore, mental health is a very important aspect of everyone's life. In this article, we will provide a detailed introduction to why it is important to care about mental health, the signs that we should be aware of a mental health problem, and how to seek help when facing mental health issues. Hope you can learn more about mental health issues and start to take care of mental health after reading this article.

Why do we need to care about our mental health?

Mental health is an integral component of an individual's overall well-being, influencing their ability to cope with life's challenges and maintain healthy relationships. With the rapid development of technology, most of us are compelled to adapt to the fast-paced environment often associated with a stressed lifestyle. When mental health is neglected, it can lead to severe physical health problems, including cardiovascular issues, obesity, and a weakened immune system. Caring about mental health is of paramount importance due to its profound impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

Furthermore, an individual's mental health significantly affects their productivity at work or in their academic pursuits. Poor mental health can result in decreased job performance, absenteeism, and a diminished capacity to excel, which can have wide-ranging economic consequences. Healthy mental well-being is also essential for building and sustaining positive relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Mental health challenges can strain relationships, leading to social isolation and a diminished support system. On a broader scale, the collective mental health of a society has a substantial impact on its overall functioning. When a significant portion of the population grapples with mental health issues, it can result in increased healthcare costs, higher crime rates, and various societal challenges. From an economic perspective, mental health issues have considerable financial implications. They contribute to elevated healthcare expenses, decreased productivity, and hindered economic growth.

Beyond the economic and social consequences, mental health plays a vital role in an individual's quality of life. Good mental health fosters happiness, a sense of purpose, and overall life satisfaction. Moreover, promoting mental health and providing support for those in need is a matter of human rights. Individuals with mental health conditions deserve equal access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, just like anyone else. Preventing and addressing mental health issues also entails early intervention, reducing the risk of more severe problems down the line. Identifying and addressing issues in their early stages can vastly improve outcomes and reduce suffering. Additionally, raising awareness about mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding it is crucial. A society that is more understanding and accepting of mental health conditions is more likely to encourage individuals to seek help when needed.

In summary, caring about mental health is essential because it profoundly influences individual well-being, physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. It also has wide-reaching implications for communities and society, impacting economic, social, and healthcare factors. Prioritizing mental health is a critical step toward creating a healthier, more compassionate, and productive society for all.

What are the signs that we should be aware of a
mental health problem?

Mental health is a broad discipline, which encompasses a wide range of disorders, from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Each typical disorder may take on totally different symptoms, which will also depend on the individuals’ situation. Some symptoms and patterns incorporate just the daily situations’ range, while others may appear abnormal states. Without the basic knowledge and information about the topic of mental health, it may be difficult for the individuals to realize and identify the mental health’s status and seek professional help when needed. Although the symptoms are various, there are common signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health. Recognizing these signs can be the first step in seeking help or providing support for themselves or even for the person that is close to them.

Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: A continual feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness, especially if it doesn't have a clear cause, can be indicative of depression.
Excessive Fears, Worries, or Anxieties: Everyone worries from time to time, but constant, severe, or irrational fears and anxieties can be signs of an anxiety disorder.
Mood Swings: Rapid and intense shifts in mood, from extreme happiness to intense sadness, could indicate disorders like bipolar disorder.
Withdrawal: Pulling away from friends, family, or usual activities, or losing interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed, can be concerning signs.
Changes in Sleeping Patterns: This includes chronic insomnia, sleeping too much, or frequent nightmares.
Changes in Eating Habits: Significant weight gain or loss, or changes in appetite, especially if not linked to other factors, can signal a problem.
Substance Abuse: Using drugs or alcohol to cope with emotions, memories, or reality can be an indication of underlying mental health issues.
Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Chronic pain, headaches, or digestive issues without a clear physical cause can sometimes be related to mental health.
Feelings of Worthlessness: Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness are alarming and can be associated with several mental health disorders.
Difficulty Concentrating: Constant trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering details can be signs of depression, anxiety, or other disorders.
Excessive Anger, Hostility, or Violence: Sudden outbursts or uncontrollable fits of anger can be concerning.
Detachment from Reality: Experiencing delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia suggests serious mental health issues like schizophrenia. Thoughts of Harm: Any thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or harming others should be taken extremely seriously and addressed immediately.

It's essential to recognize that the above signs are indicators and not definitive proof of mental health disorders. They offer a starting point for understanding potential issues, but professional consultation is always recommended.

How to seek help when we are facing mental health issues?

There are many ways to deal with and resolve your mental health issues. Once you are diagnosed or think you may be diagnosed, you can seek outside help or take care of yourself internally.

External help

Report to or find a reliable source, such as mental health organizations, counselors, family members, friends, teachers, etc. Anyone who can help you with the problem, alleviate your pressure, and be reliable should be considered.

School counselors
Mental health America
National mental health alliance
The Jed foundation, etc.

And below is some website of mental health organizations that you may seek help with:

If finding a source is too much for you, why not start from internal treatment?

Take care of your body

Stress can lead to a lot of physical and mental issues. Preventing mental health issues perpetuated, taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to:

1. Eat nutritious meals.

2. Have a regular/healthy sleep routine. Get enough sleep. Researchers believe that lack of sleep contributes to depression and mental health issues.

3. Drink plenty of water.

4. Avoid smoking, vaping, and drinking.

5. Exercise, which helps decrease depression and anxiety and improve moods.

Knowing ways to release stress

You can do a lot of things to ease your stress. Everything that can make you feel happier is worth trying. For example: have a natural walk, watch a movie/TV show, practice meditation, do sports, play with your pets, and start to write a journal. Or, find something creative. Such as joining a craft workshop; learning how to paint; trying to braid something, etc.

Knowing how to breathe can also help you to release some stress. For example, one of the breath practices is called 4-7-8 relaxing breath. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Your eyes can be slightly opened or fully closed. Press the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth and open your mouth slightly. Exhale until all the air is released from your lungs.

Close your mouth and inhale through your nose for 4 – 8 counts (you can work up to 8 counts as your lung capacity increases).
Hold your breath for 7 counts.
Exhale very slowly for 8 counts.
Repeat steps 1-3 four times.

There are other ways of breathing practice that you can try.

1. The box breath

2. Deep breathing

3. Focused breathing …