Let's Learn About Mental Health! ~Is That Image Actually... Mental Illness?~

The term "mental health" has become common, but what kind of image does this word bring to mind?

Perhaps many people associate it with the image of mental illness? This might be because the term is often used in the context of mental (health) problems.

Of course, there is a connection between mental health and mental illness.
However, if we dig a little deeper into these two, you will not only see the difference but also realize their importance, so this time I will share the importance of mental health!

First, regarding what mental health is, this term is formed by "mental" and "health," and is called"mental well-being".

When viewed in a broad framework, mental health is considered"an essential and indispensable component of health," and that health is defined as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

Furthermore, mental health, which is considered essential to the health mentioned above, refers to"a state in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community."
And the WHO calls
this state well-being.*Well-being can be broken down into 'well' (good) and 'being' (existence/state of being), so it can be considered a term that points exactly to a 'good state'.

There are many definitions of the word well-being, but since many of them include 'Feeling good' (experiencing positive emotions) and 'Functioning good' (functioning well),it is considered that mental health and well-being are closely related.

The characteristic of mental health in the explanation so far is that it points to"a state of being able to...".
Doesn't it seem to be positioned opposite to the image of being mentally tired that I touched on at the beginning?

Further characteristics of mental health include the following two points.
1. It represents more than just the absence of mental illness
2. There is no health without mental health

In other words, promoting mental health leads to creating a good state in every aspect, from individuals to organizations and society.As a result, the revitalization of society as a whole can be expected.

Then, what about mental illness?

The term mental illness is linked to so-called mental disorders such as depression, panic disorder, and anxiety disorder.Also, according to research investigating the relationship between mental health and mental illness, it has been reported that they have a negative correlation (when one increases, the other decreases).

Looking at it this far, we can see that each term is a separate thing, butrather than existing in completely different places, a continuity is assumed for these two.
*Continuity: It is easier to imagine if you draw a long line and write mental health and mental illness at each end.

In other words,promoting mental health leads to the alleviation and prevention of symptoms of mental illness.

Here,let me clear up a common misunderstanding.
That is"If you are experiencing a mental illness or disorder, can't you promote mental health (well-being) as mentioned above?".

This is a complete misunderstanding.

Returning to the definition of health explained at the very beginning, the point is that it is not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

And please try to remember that mental health and mental illness exist at opposite ends of the same line.
Being on the same line means that by intentionally promoting mental health, your position on that line will gradually change, right?

There are actually many research reports showing that through activities that enhance mental health, symptoms of mental illness have been alleviated and well-being has improved.

Regardless of the presence or absence of mental illness or disability, it is possible to enhance mental health (well-being).

However, of course, mental health and well-being cannot be improved overnight, so continuous training is necessary (it's the same image as muscle training!).
The effects of that training are very significant, and it is said that a $1 investment in mental health yields a return of $3 to $5, which is quite impactful.

Promoting mental health increases the well-being of each individual, so it is expected to increase productivity, and it makes sense that for companies, this results in higher performance! (Of course, academic improvement is also expected in schools.)

And, since 'good human relationships' are included in the elements that make up well-being, you can also expect to 'increase the number of places where you feel your own value', right?

Well, how was this explanation of the differences between mental health and mental illness, and their relationship with well-being?

Perhaps the image of the words in this field often takes precedence, which may create many negative emotions.
However, I hope that through this article, it has been conveyed that 'knowing correctly is the first step toward a richer life'.

Furthermore, I would be even happier if you became interested in promoting mental health and well-being!

See you in the next article!