I.

Definition hello
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a condition
of well-being in which a person is able to recognize their own potential, handle
daily pressures, work efficiently, and contribute back to the community.
Positive mental health is crucial today, as it profoundly influences every aspect
of our lives. Mental health can impact our thoughts, actions, and interactions. It
empowers us to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and make
informed decisions. Two of the most common mental health conditions,
depression and anxiety, cost the global economy US$ 1 trillion each year. (WHO)
(1)
II. The importance of mental health awareness
1. Affecting the Quality of Life
The importance of mental health cannot be overstated, and a healthy mind leads
to a higher quality of life. When a person is in good mental health, they generally
have a more positive attitude and outlook and more confidence in who they are as
individuals. They typically have goals, and a sense of stability in their lives, and
can accomplish daily tasks like going to school or maintaining their career. Those
with a positive mental health state usually have the ability to make friends,
maintain relationships, and engage or connect with others.
These actions, while they may seem straightforward to some, do not come easy
for those who are struggling with mental health problems. Mental health disorders
like depression and anxiety, for example, have an unfortunate way of disrupting a
person’s ability to cope with negative emotions, build friendships, and sometimes,
even get out of the house.
2. Connecting to Productivity and Financial Stability.
One of the many reasons why it’s crucial to look after your mental health is that
it boosts your overall productivity and financial security. According to research
published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, people with serious mental illness
earned approximately a third less than median earnings.
A lack of necessary mental health makes it much more difficult to work.
According to the World Health Organization, 12 billion working days are lost each
year due to anxiety and depression. Poor mental health causes a drop in
productivity, which has an impact on financial stability. When we prioritize caring
for our mental health, it’s easier to maintain a strong work performance and
achieve financial security.
3. Affecting physical health
Another reason why mental health is so important is because it also affects
physical health.
Depression can lead to suicidal ideations and suicidal attempts if left untreated.
The mind and body are always in tune with each other. Mental illness does cause
stress, which decreases the immune system, making an individual feel sick all the
time. Stress and anxiety negatively affect your overall physical health.
EX:
The WebMD states, “Worry causes the body to release stress hormones that
speed up your heart rate and breathing, raise your blood sugar, and send more
blood to your arms and legs” (How Worry Affects Your Body, 2021, p.1).
“Older adults with physical health conditions such as heart disease have a higher
rate of depression than those who are healthy” (WHO,2017). Older adults who
continue not to seek help can lead to a downbeat ending.
III. Conclusion
In conclusion, having a healthy mind is critical. Mental health affects people of
all ages, and we need to be educated on mental health before tragedy strikes. We
need to implement mental health classes in schools and eliminate the stigma that
causes people not to seek treatment. We need to better our lives and the people
around us who struggle with mental health.
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Source:
1. WHO
https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_2
2. Planstreet
https://www.planstreetinc.com/top-ten-reasons-why-mental-health-is-so-important/