The broad field of Mental Health links our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and can alter how we think, feel, and act.

The stability of our mental health can influence our decision-making. It determines how we respond to stressful situations, relate to others, and perceive ourselves and the world we live in.

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• Why Does Mental Health Matter?

• What Contributes to Mental Health?

• What Are Some Early Warning Signs?

• 4 Basic Dimensions of Mental Health

• How to Maintain Positive Mental Health

Why Does Mental Health Matter?

When battling your inner demons becomes too much, and as a result, your mental health depletes, it takes a toll on you both mentally and physically. Your relationships, goals, and ability to overcome challenges can be deeply impacted, and life can become draining and difficult to enjoy.

What Contributes to Mental Health?

• Work, school, or home life

• Relationships with others

• Life experiences such as trauma or abuse

• Biological factors such as genetics or brain chemistry

• Family history of mental health issues

There are four basic dimensions of mental health and well-being.

Our overall patterns of thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and body reactions determine mental health.

2.     Body reactions

Body reactions are the simple fluctuations in your bodily functions, such as your heart rate, breathing, digestion, and hormones.

Examples of body reactions:

• Muscle tension, aches, or headaches

• Sweating, hot flushes, or cold chills

• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing

• Lack of or increased appetite

• Upsets stomach, bowels, or diarrhoea

• Decreased sex drive

• Pounding, racing, or abnormal heartbeat

• Feeling light-headed, dizzy, or nausea

• Tinging in hands and/or feet

• Feelings of isolation

• Aggravation of an existing health problem i.e. acne, migraines, etc.

4.     Behaviours

Behaviours are how you respond to your environment. Others are helpful, while some are the utter opposite.

Examples of helpful behaviours:

• Breaking down an issue and resolving it one step at a time

• Communicating with a trusted friend or family member

• Eating wholesome, nourishing food to fuel your body. Check out my post here on the Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet and the ways it can impact your mental health.

• Engaging in exercise, yoga or pilates to get your blood flowing

• Undertaking hobbies to distract yourself

• Practising Gratitude Meditation or other mindful forms of meditation