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Mental Health. Definition,
Benefits, and How to Maintain It
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In today’s fast-paced modern era, mental health is no longer just a health trend; it is a fundamental human need equal to physical health. We often focus intensely on our nutritional intake but forget to provide sufficient "nourishment" for our minds.
1. Definition of Mental Health
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to their community.
Put simply, mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we navigate life.
2. Benefits of Maintaining Mental Health
Having a stable mental state provides a wide range of positive impacts on various aspects of life, including:
- Increased Productivity: A clear mind makes it easier to focus, make decisions, and complete tasks efficiently.
- Harmonious Social Relationships: Individuals with good mental health tend to have better empathy and communicate more effectively with those around them.
- Better Physical Health: There is a strong connection between the mind and the body. Good mental health can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
- Resilience: It helps you bounce back faster from failures or traumatic events in life.
3. How to Maintain Mental Health
Maintaining mental health is an ongoing process. Here are some practical steps you can implement:
| Action | Brief Explanation |
- | Open Up to Someone
- Talking to a trusted friend or professional about your feelings can significantly lighten your mental burden
- Stay Physically Active
- Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that trigger positive feelings
- Get Enough Rest
- 7–9 hours of sleep daily is crucial for brain regeneration and emotional stability
- Limit Social Media
- Constant comparison with others in the digital world can trigger anxiety and low self-esteem
- Practice Mindfulness
- Meditation or simple deep-breathing exercises help you stay grounded in the present moment
4. When to Seek Professional Help?
It is vital to understand that not every problem can be solved alone. You should consult a psychologist or psychiatrist if you experience:
- Drastic changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
- Loss of interest in hobbies you previously enjoyed.
- Prolonged feelings of sadness or anxiety (lasting more than two weeks).
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others.
Remember: Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness; it is a courageous step in prioritizing your well-being.
Data Sources
This article was compiled based on references from reputable health institutions:
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Mental Health: Strengthening Our Response.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – About Mental Health.
- Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenkes RI) – Directorate of Health Promotion.
- Psychology Today – Basics of Mental Health and Well-being.
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