What does it mean to be mentally healthy?
The other day I was asked “What does it even mean to have good mental health? How do I know if I’m doing well or just treading water?” This is such an important question! Especially in a world where self-diagnosis and mental health myths seem prevalent, and social media can make it seem like everyone has it together except you. Additionally, because it’s not really feasible or realistic to feel “good” or “happy” all the time, how much anxiety, sadness, or anger is too much? It can be hard to tell when our experiences are typical and normal, and when we might need a little support.
So as a therapist, here is what I consider when I think about what it means to be mentally and emotionally healthy.
1. Safety
Physical and psychological safety is at the heart of mental wellness. Without safety, we are constantly living in a state of stress, which is not sustainable for our mental or physical health. Safety includes living in an environment free from abuse, having adequate and healthy food and water, and not engaging in violence toward oneself or others.
2. Functionality
The severity of a mental illness or disorder is determined by its effect on our overall functioning. For example, anxiety can be mild and while uncomfortable, may not keep us from doing many things we want to do. On the other hand, anxiety can be severe and could make us too afraid to ever leave the house. How well you’re functioning includes doing the things that you are generally expected to do at your age- pay your bills, take care of yourself and your children, go to work/school, and stay out of serious legal trouble.
3. Connection to Others
The quality of our relationships with other people is also a really important indicator of mental wellness. Healthy relationships are ones where we feel supported, valued, and appreciated. When our social networks are not supportive of us, we become depressed, anxious, and sometimes even suicidal. Humans are social creatures, so healthy social relationships are really important for our mental health.
4. Awareness and regulation of thoughts and feelings
Being mentally healthy means that we are aware of our thoughts and feelings, and perhaps most importantly, feel a sense of understanding and control over them. This is where therapy is most effective; it helps us understand and change thought patterns and emotional responses. When we are mentally well, we allow our feelings to be felt without avoiding or numbing, we express them safely and effectively, and we feel a sense of control over unhelpful or intrusive thoughts.
5. An overall sense of contentment or satisfaction with your life
Are you generally happy with your life right now? Do you feel a sense of purpose and optimism? Are you confident that you can handle issues when they arise? These are all important questions to gauge your overall life satisfaction. Being mentally healthy does not mean being happy all of the time, or even most of the time. Being content, optimistic, and comfortable is important for feeling mentally stable.
It's important to keep in mind that all of these areas could be measured on a continuum and could feel like they change from day to day at times. Where do you think you line up with these? Where is there room to make improvements? If you’re doing well in all of these areas consistently, keep up the good work! Of course, there is always room for greater peace, stability, and insight, but for now just know that if your needs are met in these 5 areas, you’re probably doing pretty ok.
Notice one or more of these areas are a little off? Consider seeking out some professional assistance, taking some time to reflect, or just follow along here! We’re going to keep diving in so stay tuned!
