Understanding Mental Health

Tomorrow is World Mental Health Day.

A day organised by the Mental Health Foundation to raise awareness and funds to help people struggling with their mental health.

You can visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk to find out more.

When we talk about mental health a lot of people are confused as to what we mean.

There are so many different definitions that it can be confusing.

The World Health Organisation’s definition of mental health is “Mental health is a state of well-being in which the individual realises 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.”

I’ve spoken in this column before about how people can feel awkward talking about their mental wellbeing.

There’s really no need to.

I wonder sometimes if it’s a cultural thing.

In America it seems that everyone has a therapist, while in Britain everyone has a “stiff upper lip”.

I know which one I believe works better!

If we break a limb we’re straight to hospital, but what if it’s our heart that’s broken?

 

 

Hospital again for a heart attack, however those of us who have experienced an anxiety or panic attack will know that they can be just as terrifying.

If we fall and bruise ourselves we are usually consoled by our friends and family but what if it’s our ego that’s bruised?

If we start to lose our sight we go and book an appointment with an optician, who do you turn to when it’s self-esteem that’s fading?

So if you’re struggling with stress, your emotions or can’t seem to control certain behaviours what can you do?

Well, on the Mental Health Foundation website they say “A comfy sofa, a supportive friend and a nice hot cuppa.

Everyone knows how beneficial a good cup of tea and a chat can be.

Just sharing your cares and hopes with someone else can be great for your own mental health and wellbeing.”

If you don’t feel comfortable sharing with friends or think that you need more help than that, you may wish to seek professional help.

To help with World Mental Health Day I’ve set aside a day next week if you’d like to either talk over the phone or visit me for a cup of tea and a chat for free.